Darling Underwing
Common NameDarling Underwing
Scientific NameCatocala cara
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, red, black, white
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, riparian areas, parks, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to Florida and west to Texas and Kansas
Host Plantswillow, poplar, cottonwood
Flight PeriodLate July to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs overwinter, hatching in spring. Larvae feed on host tree leaves, pupating in leaf litter or loose bark. Adults are nocturnal and emerge in late summer.
Identification TipsIdentified by its cryptic grey-brown forewings and, when disturbed, the striking bright red hindwings featuring a prominent black median band and a black terminal band with a white fringe.
Description
A large moth with mottled grey-brown forewings that provide excellent camouflage against tree bark, contrasting sharply with its vivid red hindwings marked by a broad black central band and a black border.
