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Muslin moth

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description Muslin moth Overview

The muslin moth (Diaphora mendica) is a European erebid moth exhibiting strong sexual dimorphism: males are grey-spotted while females are white, both flying in spring across grasslands and woodland edges.

help Muslin moth FAQ

What is the scientific name of the muslin moth?

The muslin moth is Diaphora mendica, an erebid moth in the family Erebidae. It is a European species associated with grassland, woodland, downland, and some suburban habitats. [UKMoths](https://www.ukmoths.org.uk/species/diaphora-mendica/)

How can I tell a male muslin moth from a female?

The male is usually gray or brown with dark spotting, while the female is generally white with black speckles. This strong sexual dimorphism is one of the easiest ways to recognize Diaphora mendica. [UKMoths](https://www.ukmoths.org.uk/species/diaphora-mendica/)

When does the muslin moth fly?

It is a spring-flying moth, with British records concentrated mainly from April into May and sometimes June depending on location. It is therefore much earlier in the year than many summer-flying hawk moths. [UKMoths](https://www.ukmoths.org.uk/species/diaphora-mendica/)

Is the muslin moth the same as the satellite sphinx moth?

No. The muslin moth is Diaphora mendica in Erebidae, while the satellite sphinx is Eumorpha satellitia in Sphingidae. Their families, body forms, ranges, and larval host plants are different.

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