Species Insects & ArthropodsAshen Pinion Moth

Ashen Pinion Moth

Lithophane antennata

CommonInsect & Arthropod
Illustration of Ashen Pinion Moth (Lithophane antennata)

The Ashen Pinion Moth is a late autumn noctuid with ash-gray wings that overwinters as an adult, flying on mild winter nights and nectaring at ivy and witch hazel. It is one of several pinion moths that are active in winter rather than summer. Its gray-patterned wings are beautifully cryptic against pale bark.

Habitat
Deciduous forests and woodland edges, active in late fall and winter
Diet
Larvae: apple, cherry, and maple. Adults: nectar from late-season flowers and sap
How common
Common

Best time to see a Ashen Pinion Moth

The best time to see a Ashen Pinion Moth is January–April, when about 61% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 417 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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