Softly's Shoulder-knot
Common NameSoftly's Shoulder-knot
Scientific NameLithophane leautieri hesperica
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyXyleninae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black
HabitatConiferous woodlands, gardens, parks, and areas with cypress or juniper trees.
Geographic RangeWestern Europe, Mediterranean region, North Africa, and has spread to the United Kingdom.
Host PlantsJuniperus, Cupressus, Cupressocyparis leylandii
Flight PeriodSeptember to November (before overwintering) and March to May (after overwintering)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesAdults emerge in autumn, overwinter, and then lay eggs in spring. Larvae feed on the foliage of coniferous trees, pupating in the soil.
Identification TipsLook for the mottled grey-brown forewings with prominent dark-outlined reniform and orbicular spots, and the distinctive dark basal streak (the 'shoulder-knot'). Its cryptic coloration helps it blend with tree bark.
Description
A medium-sized, robust moth with mottled grey and brown forewings, featuring distinct dark-outlined reniform and orbicular spots, and a characteristic dark mark resembling a 'shoulder-knot' near the base. The hindwings are paler grey.
