Silky Sallow
Common NameSilky Sallow
Scientific NameXanthia semifulva
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyXyleninae
Wingspan (mm)31.5
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsreddish-brown, brown
HabitatWoodlands, parks, gardens, hedgerows, riverbanks
Geographic RangeEurope, extending eastwards into parts of Asia
Host Plantswillow, poplar
Flight PeriodLate August to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the catkins and young leaves of willow and poplar in spring, then pupate in the soil. Adults emerge in late summer.
Identification TipsKey features include the reddish-brown, finely speckled forewings, distinct pale-ringed stigmata, and a characteristic pale, often yellowish, central streak running from the base to the outer margin.
Description
A medium-sized moth with reddish-brown to tawny forewings, finely speckled with darker scales. It features prominent, pale-ringed reniform and orbicular stigmata, and a distinctive pale central streak.
