Black Wedge-spot
Common NameBlack Wedge-spot
Scientific NameXylena nupera
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)58
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black, white
HabitatDeciduous and mixed woodlands, forests, open areas, gardens
Geographic RangeEastern and central North America, from Newfoundland west to Alberta, south to Florida and Texas
Host Plantswillow, poplar, birch, maple, cherry, dandelion, plantain
Flight PeriodSeptember to May (overwinters as adult)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed in spring and early summer on various plants, then pupate in the soil. Adults emerge in late summer/fall, overwinter, and mate/lay eggs in early spring.
Identification TipsKey features include the prominent, shaggy thoracic tuft, the distinct black wedge-spot on the forewing, and the overall mottled grey-brown coloration. Often confused with other *Xylena* species, but the specific shape and intensity of the black wedge are diagnostic.
Description
A medium-sized moth with a cryptic, mottled grey and brown forewing pattern, featuring a prominent black wedge-shaped mark near the costa and a raised, shaggy thoracic tuft.
