Dark Crimson Underwing
Common NameDark Crimson Underwing
Scientific NameCatocala sponsa
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)70
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, crimson, black
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, oak forests, parks, gardens
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe, North Africa, Asia Minor, Caucasus, Transcaucasia, Middle East
Host PlantsQuercus robur, Quercus petraea, Quercus spp.
Flight PeriodJuly to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs overwinter, larvae hatch in spring and feed on oak leaves, pupation occurs in a cocoon among leaves or bark, adults emerge in summer.
Identification TipsKey features include the cryptic grey-brown forewings resembling bark and the striking crimson hindwings with two distinct black bands, revealed when the moth is disturbed or in flight.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled, bark-like grey-brown forewings that conceal vibrant crimson hindwings marked with two broad black bands and a black border when at rest.
