Grey Shoulder-knot
Common NameGrey Shoulder-knot
Scientific NameLithophane consocia
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyXyleninae
Wingspan (mm)44
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, white, black
HabitatConiferous and mixed woodlands, forests, parks, gardens
Geographic RangePalearctic region (Europe, Russia, parts of Asia)
Host Plantsspruce, fir, larch, oak, birch, willow
Flight PeriodLate August to October (overwintering) and March to April
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe moth overwinters as an adult, emerging in autumn to feed and then again in spring to lay eggs. Larvae feed during late spring and early summer.
Identification TipsLook for the prominent dark, often V-shaped or wedge-shaped mark near the base of the forewing (the 'shoulder-knot'), and the overall bark-like cryptic pattern. The reniform and orbicular stigmata are often outlined in black.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled grey and white forewings, featuring intricate black markings that provide excellent camouflage against tree bark.
