Early Grey
Common NameEarly Grey
Scientific NameXylocampa areola
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyXyleninae
Wingspan (mm)41
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, white, black
HabitatWoodlands, gardens, hedgerows, scrubland
Geographic RangeWestern Europe, including the British Isles
Host Plantshoneysuckle
Flight PeriodMarch to May
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on honeysuckle from May to July, then pupate in an earthen cocoon underground, overwintering as pupae before emerging as adults in early spring.
Identification TipsKey features include the mottled grey and white forewings with a prominent dark reniform stigma and a pale patch near the tornus. Its early flight period (March-May) and association with honeysuckle are also strong indicators.
Description
A medium-sized moth with forewings mottled in shades of grey and white, creating a cryptic pattern that mimics lichen or bark. It features a distinctive dark kidney-shaped mark (reniform stigma) and a pale patch near the tornus.
