Private Sallow
Common NamePrivate Sallow
Scientific NameEupsilia tristigmata
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyXyleninae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgray, dark brown, white, black
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, forests, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America (from Nova Scotia west to Manitoba and south to Florida and Texas)
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, willow, cherry
Flight PeriodAugust to November (overwinters) and March to April
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThis species overwinters as an adult, emerging in late summer/fall, then hibernating, and reappearing in early spring to mate and lay eggs. Larvae feed during spring and early summer.
Identification TipsLook for the overall mottled gray and brown cryptic pattern, the distinct dark reniform spot, and the wavy antemedial and postmedial lines. Its activity period in late fall and early spring after overwintering as an adult is also a key characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized moth with a mottled gray and dark brown forewing pattern, featuring wavy lines and distinct reniform and orbicular spots. Its cryptic coloration provides excellent camouflage against tree bark.
