Aholibah Underwing Moth
Common NameAholibah Underwing Moth
Scientific NameCatocala aholibah
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)58
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black, red
HabitatOak woodlands, forests
Geographic RangeWestern North America (e.g., California, Oregon, Washington, British Columbia)
Host PlantsOak (Quercus species)
Flight PeriodJuly to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the leaves of oak trees, typically pupating in leaf litter or soil. Adults emerge in late summer and are active into early autumn.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the intricate, cryptic pattern of the forewings and the distinctive red hindwings with a broad black median band and a narrower black terminal band. The specific shape and markings on the forewings help differentiate it from other *Catocala* species.
Description
This moth features mottled grey and brown forewings that provide excellent camouflage against tree bark, contrasting sharply with its bright red hindwings which display a prominent black median band and a black terminal band.
