Dejected Underwing
Common NameDejected Underwing
Scientific NameCatocala dejecta
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)68
Primary Colorsgrey, black, white
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, forest edges
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Ontario and Quebec south to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantshickory, walnut
Flight PeriodAugust to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in late summer or fall and overwinter. Larvae hatch in spring, feeding on the leaves of host trees, then pupate in early summer before emerging as adults.
Identification TipsKey features include the intricate, bark-like grey and black forewing pattern and the contrasting black hindwings with a white fringe, which are only visible when the moth is disturbed or in flight.
Description
A medium-sized moth characterized by its mottled grey and black forewings, which provide excellent camouflage against tree bark. Its hindwings, typically hidden at rest, are black with a prominent white fringe.
