Amanda's Pinion
Common NameAmanda's Pinion
Scientific NameXylena amanda
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)47.5
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, tan, dark brown
HabitatBoreal and mixed forests, woodlands, often near wetlands.
Geographic RangeNorthern North America, including Canada and northern US states.
Host Plantswillow, birch, poplar, spruce
Flight PeriodAugust to November and March to May
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUnivoltine. Eggs are laid in spring, larvae feed on deciduous trees and shrubs through summer, pupate in the soil, and adults emerge in late summer/fall, overwintering as adults.
Identification TipsKey features include the variegated brown and grey forewing coloration with distinct dark brown streaks, especially the prominent dagger-like mark (pinion) on the forewings, which helps differentiate it from other *Xylena* species.
Description
A medium-sized moth with cryptically patterned forewings in shades of brown, grey, and tan, featuring dark brown streaks and a prominent dagger-like mark. Its coloration provides excellent camouflage against tree bark.
