Brown Pinion
Common NameBrown Pinion
Scientific NamePhlogophora vetusta
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHadeninae
Wingspan (mm)45
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, dark brown, tan
HabitatWoodlands, forests, gardens, heathland, often near damp areas
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia, North Africa
Host Plantsdock, plantain, primrose, willow, birch, heather
Flight PeriodAugust to November
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae hatch in autumn, overwinter, and feed on various herbaceous plants and shrubs. Pupation occurs in the soil in spring, with adults emerging in late summer.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its rich brown, mottled forewings with a broad, darker central band and a prominent, often pale-edged, kidney-shaped (reniform) stigma. The robust, furry body is also characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized moth with rich, mottled brown forewings, featuring a darker central band and prominent, often pale-ringed, kidney-shaped markings. Its thorax is notably furry.
