Forbes' Sallow
Common NameForbes' Sallow
Scientific NameCopivaleria forbesi
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyXyleninae
Wingspan (mm)34
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgray, brown, black
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, orchards
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada south to Florida and west to Texas
Host PlantsPrunus, Crataegus, Malus, Salix, Populus, Betula, Quercus
Flight PeriodMarch to May
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae hatch in spring, feed on host plants through late spring, then pupate in the soil where they overwinter. Adults emerge the following early spring.
Identification TipsAdult moths are identified by their mottled gray-brown forewings, often with a dark basal dash and a pale reniform spot, and their early spring flight period. The caterpillar's distinctive reddish dorsal stripe on a green body is a key feature.
Description
The caterpillar is green with a prominent reddish-brown dorsal stripe and paler lateral stripes. The adult moth has mottled gray-brown forewings with darker markings, providing excellent camouflage.
