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The Tamarisk Peacock moth (Chiasmia aestimaria) is a small geometer moth. With a wingspan of 21–27 mm, it is native to the Mediterranean, North Africa, and the Middle East. Its larvae feed exclusively on Tamarix plants, and the caterpillars are masters of camouflage, frequently disguising themselves as broken twigs.
Here are the key facts about the Tamarisk Peacock moth:
Host Plants: The larvae (caterpillars) are monophagous, meaning they feed only on various species of Tamarix (tamarisk). On the European mainland, they have also been recorded feeding on Bog Myrtle.
Appearance: Adults are small, featuring a wingspan between 21 mm and 27 mm. They typically have grayish or brown wings with darker bands and white flecks. The caterpillars are green with white dashes and turn deep maroon right before pupating.
Life Cycle: Depending on the region, the moth produces two or three generations per year, with adults flying from April to May, and again from late summer into October.
Habitat: They are typically found in coastal areas, river margins, sand dunes, parks, and suburban gardens where tamarisk shrubs are present.
Camouflage: Caterpillars and adults are highly adapted to blend into their environment. Adults rest during the day on tree trunks or branches, while caterpillars rest on the green branches of the tamarisk, both disguised as twigs or bark.
Range & Migration: They are common in southern and south-eastern Europe, but are increasingly expanding northward into central Europe and even reaching the British Isles as rare immigrants.
