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Oak beauty

Oak beauty

Biston strataria

A species of Biston

Biston strataria is found in a variety of habitats, but is mostly found in woodlands where it rests on the bark of trees, camouflaged by its mottled black and grey wings. The male has feather-like antennae while those of the female are more thread-like. The moth has a wingspan of 4 - 6 cm. The larvae are mainly brown with three lumps near the end of the abdomen. They have evolved to resemble sticks which helps protect them from predators.

General Info About Oak beauty
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Attributes of Oak beauty
Habitat
forest; grassland; hedge; garden
Adult Food Sources
Flower nectar, honeydew, sap from trees
Larva Food Source
Oak leaves, willow leaves, birch leaves, hawthorn leaves, alder leaves
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Oak beauty is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Oak beauty feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
Not reported
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Life Cycle of Oak beauty
Egg The developmental journey of oak beauty starts with the egg stage. Tiny and often spherical, the eggs are normally laid on the host plant. Their color may blend with the environment for camouflage, and the incubation period varies until larval emergence.
Larva Upon hatching, the larva of oak beauty voraciously feeds on host plants, resulting in rapid growth. This stage is characterized by several molts called instars. The larva dramatically increases in size, and changes color with each molt to better hide from predators.
Pupal After fully developing, the larva of oak beauty enters the pupal stage, encasing itself within a chrysalis attached to a substrate. During this stage, the oak beauty undergoes remarkable transformation; its body reorganizes into adult structures. The pupa may be cryptically colored.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult oak beauty’s development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction. The coloration is often vivid and serves various ecological functions.
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Adult Size of Oak beauty
4 - 6 cm
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Predators of Oak beauty Larvae
Birds, rodents, lizards, spiders, insectivorous insects
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Predators of Adult Oak beauty
Bats, birds, rodents
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Interesting Facts About Oak beauty
Oak beauty can precisely mimic dead twigs, not only in appearance but also by remaining completely motionless when predators are nearby.
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Scientific Classification of Oak beauty
Tips for Finding Oak beauty
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How Can You Attract Oak beauty
Adult oak beauty may be attracted to light traps due to their nocturnal nature. During their larval stage, they can be found on host plants that they feed on.
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Habitat Preferences of Oak beauty Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of oak beauty are typically laid on the underside of leaves of host plants, often found in wooded or forested areas. As caterpillars, oak beauty can be spotted on the branches or trunks of trees, camouflaging with the bark upon which they feed. During the pupal stage, they are generally hidden in crevices or under loose bark, often closer to the ground to avoid predators and environmental extremes. Adult oak beauty are nocturnal and during the day can be found resting on tree trunks or wooden structures, blending in with their surroundings due to their cryptic coloring.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Oak beauty
The best time to find oak beauty depends on their life stage. Adult moths are commonly found at night due to their attraction to artificial lights. Caterpillars are often active during the day, making it easier to observe them feeding on host plants.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Oak beauty
Mild, warm nights without too much wind or rain are ideal for trapping adult oak beauty, as extreme weather conditions can hinder their flight. For finding larvae or caterpillars, days with moderate weather conditions are preferred to avoid disturbances from heavy precipitation or strong winds.
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How and Where Can You Find Oak beauty at Different Life Stages
Egg Oak beauty eggs are typically laid on the underside of leaves of host plants. Search for small, round or oval eggs in those areas, using a magnifying glass if necessary for better visibility.
Larva Oak beauty larvae resemble twigs or branches as a form of camouflage, making them difficult to spot. Look for larvae on or near host plants that have signs of feeding, like chewed leaves.
Pupal Oak beauty pupae can be found in protected places, such as in the soil, leaf litter, or among plant debris. Gentle excavation and sifting through these materials can reveal the pupae.
Adult Oak beauty adults are mostly nocturnal and are drawn to light sources at night. Setting up a light trap can efficiently attract these moths for observation or capture.
Are Oak beauty harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Oak beauty
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Forestry Pest

The larva of oak beauty primarily feeds on the leaves of broad-leaved trees, which can lead to defoliation. This ranges from mild, with minimal impact, to severe, potentially causing tree death and affecting forest health. Large infestations can have economic implications and disrupt ecosystems.

More Effects of Oak beauty

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