Connubial Underwing
Common NameConnubial Underwing
Scientific NameCatocala connubialis
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorsblack, white, grey, brown, orange
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, forests, and areas with host trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada south to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantshickory, walnut
Flight PeriodJuly to September
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae feed on hickory and walnut leaves, pupation occurs in leaf litter or soil, and adults emerge in late summer.
Identification TipsKey features include the intricate, wavy pattern of black, white, and grey on the forewings. The bright orange hindwings with a broad black median band and a narrow black terminal band are diagnostic when revealed in flight.
Description
A medium-sized moth with highly cryptic forewings, displaying a complex, mottled pattern of wavy black, white, grey, and brown lines and patches that provide excellent camouflage.
