Look at this early thorn moth perching on a birch twig! But who put birch twigs in the moth trap?

Look again — this twig has a smiley face!

It is a buff tip moth (Phalera bucephala) — disappointing name for such a master of disguise.

The Latin is more like it — meaning something like bull’s head breast plate.

Here is a rear view:

Beautiful picture taken on Bill’s i-phone. Not an uncommon moth but probably rarely noticed!