Fringe-tree Sallow
Common NameFringe-tree Sallow
Scientific NameEupsilia tristigmata
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyXyleninae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgray, brown, white
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, forest edges
Geographic RangeEastern North America (from Nova Scotia south to Florida, west to Texas and Manitoba)
Host Plantsash, maple, oak, fringe-tree
Flight PeriodOctober to November (overwinters) and March to April
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on deciduous tree leaves in spring/early summer. Adults emerge in late fall, overwinter in sheltered locations, and re-emerge in early spring to mate and lay eggs.
Identification TipsLook for the characteristic mottled gray-brown forewings with prominent, often white-outlined reniform and orbicular spots. The overall cryptic coloration and its flight period (late fall and early spring) are key identifiers.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled gray and brown forewings, featuring distinct, often white-ringed reniform and orbicular spots, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark.
