Birch tooth moth

The birch tooth tensioner (Pheosia gnoma) is a moth from the family of the tooth moths (Notodontidae)It is strongly dependent on the presence of birch trees, where its caterpillars prefer to develop - but they can also occasionally be found on poplars.
This species finds good conditions in the acidic forests of the Dingden Heath, where birch is widespread. The caterpillars of the moth reach a body length of 50-60 mm, have a glossy, greasy to waxy appearance and a reddish-brown, violet or green base colour. They have a broad yellow stripe on both sides. Black stigmas are outlined in white. The caterpillars have the characteristic hump at the end of their abdomen. The colouring of the young animals only gradually becomes stronger.

The butterflies are strictly nocturnal and fly in two generations each year: first in May/June and then again in August. The caterpillars from the eggs of the first generation can be found from September to October, those of the second from June to July of the following year.

Pupation takes place in the ground in a cocoon made of soil, where the pupa also overwinters.