Deceptive Sallow
Common NameDeceptive Sallow
Scientific NameEupsilia transversa
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyXyleninae
Wingspan (mm)43
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgreen, black, white
HabitatWoodlands, hedgerows, gardens, parks
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, temperate Asia
Host Plantsoak, willow, birch, hawthorn, poplar, elm
Flight PeriodSeptember to April
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are polyphagous, feeding on the leaves of various deciduous trees and shrubs. The species overwinters as an adult moth, emerging in autumn, hibernating, and reappearing in spring to lay eggs.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive moss-green and black mottled forewings, the prominent kidney mark, and the pale subterminal line. The hairy green thorax is also a good indicator, as is its flight period spanning autumn, winter hibernation, and spring emergence.
Description
A medium-sized moth with forewings displaying a complex, mottled pattern of moss green, black, and white, often featuring a distinct kidney mark and a pale, wavy subterminal line. The thorax is densely covered in green hairs.
