Ashen Pinion
Common NameAshen Pinion
Scientific NameLithophane consocia
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyXyleninae
Wingspan (mm)43
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, dark grey, black
HabitatWoodlands, forests, parks, gardens
Geographic RangePalearctic region (Europe, Asia), introduced to North America (eastern Canada, northeastern US)
Host Plantsalder, birch, willow, poplar, rowan, hazel
Flight PeriodAugust to November, then March to May (overwinters as adult)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in spring. Larvae feed on deciduous trees and shrubs from late spring to early summer, then pupate in the soil. Adults emerge in late summer/autumn, overwinter, and become active again in spring to mate and lay eggs.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its overall ash-grey coloration and cryptic forewing pattern with subtle dark markings. It is one of the 'pinion' moths that overwinters as an adult, often resting with wings folded tightly, resembling a piece of bark.
Description
A medium-sized, ash-grey moth with a cryptic, mottled pattern on its forewings, featuring indistinct dark streaks and stigmata, and a slightly darker central band.
