Grey Arches
Common NameGrey Arches
Scientific NamePolia nebulosa
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHadeninae
Wingspan (mm)50
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, black, white
HabitatWoodlands, forests, parks, gardens, hedgerows
Geographic RangeEurope, temperate Asia, North Africa
Host Plantsoak, birch, willow, hawthorn, sallow, hazel, honeysuckle
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on various deciduous trees and shrubs from July to September, then pupate in the soil, overwintering as pupae before adults emerge the following spring.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its complex, mottled grey and black forewing pattern, often with a prominent dark central band and distinct reniform and orbicular stigmata, giving it a cryptic appearance.
Description
A medium-sized moth with highly variegated and mottled grey, black, and white forewings, often with a greenish tint, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark or lichen.
