False Pinion Moth
Common NameFalse Pinion Moth
Scientific NameLithophane furcifera
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyXyleninae
Wingspan (mm)41
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, black, white
HabitatWoodlands, parks, gardens, areas with deciduous trees
Geographic RangePalearctic region, including much of Europe and parts of Asia
Host Plantswillow, sallow, poplar, birch, alder
Flight PeriodSeptember to November (overwintering adults) and March to April (spring activity)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in spring, larvae feed from April to June, then pupate in the soil. Adults emerge in autumn, overwinter, and become active again in spring for breeding.
Identification TipsLook for the mottled grey and black forewings, the distinct black W-mark near the tornus, and the dark-outlined reniform and orbicular stigmata. The overall cryptic pattern helps it blend with tree bark.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled grey forewings featuring prominent black markings, including a distinctive W-mark near the tornus and dark-outlined stigmata.
