Citrine Sallow
Common NameCitrine Sallow
Scientific NameXanthia citrago
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyXyleninae
Wingspan (mm)36
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorspale yellow, orange-brown
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, parks, gardens
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host PlantsTilia, Ulmus, Betula
Flight PeriodAugust to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on the bark of host trees in autumn, overwinter, and hatch in spring. The larvae feed on developing buds and leaves before pupating in the soil.
Identification TipsKey features include the vivid yellow-orange forewings with strong, often wavy, reddish-brown cross-lines and a clear kidney-shaped mark. The hairy, yellowish thorax is also a good distinguishing characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized moth characterized by its bright citrine-yellow forewings adorned with prominent reddish-brown transverse lines and a distinct kidney-shaped stigma. The head and thorax are also notably yellowish-brown and hairy.
