The Sallow
Common NameThe Sallow
Scientific NameXanthia icteritia
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyXyleninae
Wingspan (mm)32
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsyellow, brown
HabitatWoodlands, hedgerows, gardens, fens, marshes
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia
Host Plantswillow, sallow, poplar
Flight PeriodAugust to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in autumn and overwinter. Larvae hatch in spring, feeding first on catkins then on the leaves of host plants before pupating in the soil.
Identification TipsLook for the bright yellow forewings with reddish-brown markings, particularly the prominent kidney mark. It can be distinguished from similar sallow moths by its more intense yellow coloration and specific pattern of markings.
Description
A medium-sized moth with bright yellow forewings variably marked with reddish-brown blotches and speckles, including distinct kidney and orbicular stigmata.
