Orange Sallow
Common NameOrange Sallow
Scientific NameXanthia citrago
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyXyleninae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsorange, yellow, reddish-brown
HabitatWoodlands, hedgerows, gardens, riverbanks, and other areas with sallow trees
Geographic RangeEurope, extending eastwards into parts of Asia
Host Plantssallow (Salix spp.), willow (Salix spp.)
Flight PeriodAugust to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs overwinter, hatching in spring. Larvae feed on sallow catkins and young leaves, then pupate in a cocoon underground.
Identification TipsKey features include the bright orange-yellow base color, the intricate reddish-brown reticulated pattern, and the clearly defined, often darker-ringed stigmata on the forewings.
Description
A medium-sized moth with vibrant orange-yellow forewings adorned with a distinctive network of reddish-brown lines and prominent circular and kidney-shaped stigmata.
