The Wing Atlas
Purple-lined Sallow

Purple-lined Sallow

Common NamePurple-lined Sallow
Scientific NameAgrochola nitida
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)34
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsreddish-brown, dark brown
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, forest edges
Geographic RangeEastern North America (from Nova Scotia to Florida, west to Manitoba and Texas)
Host Plantsoak, maple, willow, birch, cherry
Flight PeriodAugust to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in autumn, overwinter, and hatch in spring. Larvae feed on deciduous trees and shrubs, then pupate in the soil before adults emerge in late summer.
Identification TipsLook for the reddish-brown coloration with prominent, wavy dark transverse lines on the forewings. Its late summer to fall flight period is also a key indicator.

Description

This medium-sized moth has reddish-brown forewings marked with several distinct, wavy dark purplish-brown transverse lines. Its stout, furry body matches the wing coloration, providing camouflage.

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