Branded Pinion
Common NameBranded Pinion
Scientific NameLithophane pertorrida
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyXyleninae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, white
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, mixed forests
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, willow, cherry
Flight PeriodSeptember to November, and March to May
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the foliage of various deciduous trees, pupate in the soil, and adults emerge in late summer, overwinter, and lay eggs in spring.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its bark-like cryptic coloration, the two prominent dark spots on the forewings, and its characteristic flight period in both fall and early spring.
Description
A medium-sized moth with highly cryptic, mottled grey and brown forewings that mimic tree bark, featuring two distinct dark reniform spots.
