False Underwing
Common NameFalse Underwing
Scientific NameEuclidia cuspidea
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsgrey, black, white, orange, yellow
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, meadows, prairies, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeNorth America, from southern Canada south to Florida and west to California
Host Plantsclover, alfalfa, vetch
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are semi-loopers, feeding on various legumes. Pupation occurs in a cocoon in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its mottled grey, black, and white forewings with wavy lines and a prominent black patch near the apex, combined with the bright orange-yellow band on its dark hindwings, which are often visible even at rest.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled grey, black, and white forewings featuring intricate wavy patterns, and striking dark hindwings with a broad, bright orange-yellow median band.
