Drepanepteryx phalaenoides

A unique species, easy to identify but rarely seen. The individual shown below is the fourth record for Norfolk and the first to have come to light. The head is typically held down so that the profile of the front of the body is smooth with the wings - when disturbed it may be fully withdrawn, including the antennae, and then the insect could eaily be overlooked as a leaf.

This was found during an excellent moth-trapping session. It was larger than I was expecting, big for a brown lacewing.

Drepanepteryx phalaenoides, Wendling Beck Environment Project (Norfolk, UK), 1st May 2025