Sprawler
Common NameSprawler
Scientific NameBrachionycha sphinx
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyXyleninae
Wingspan (mm)45
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, white, black, brown
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, parks, gardens
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia
Host Plantsoak, birch, elm, lime, hawthorn
Flight PeriodOctober to November
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are green with yellow stripes and feed on the leaves of various deciduous trees in spring and early summer. They pupate in the soil, and adults emerge in late autumn.
Identification TipsLook for its distinctive cryptic grey and white patterning on the forewings, its stout and hairy body, and its late autumn flight period, often found resting on tree trunks.
Description
A medium-sized moth with a stout, hairy body and forewings mottled in shades of grey, white, and black, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark.
