French Red Underwing
Common NameFrench Red Underwing
Scientific NameCatocala promissa
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyCatocalinae
Wingspan (mm)65
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, red, black, white
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, oak forests, parks, gardens
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe, North Africa, Asia Minor
Host PlantsQuercus robur, Quercus petraea, Quercus
Flight PeriodJuly to September
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in oak bark crevices and overwinter. Larvae hatch in spring, feeding on oak leaves, and pupate in a cocoon. Adults emerge in summer.
Identification TipsKey features include the mottled grey-brown forewings for camouflage and the bright red hindwings with a broad black band, which are revealed when the moth is disturbed.
Description
A medium-sized moth with cryptically patterned grey-brown forewings that mimic tree bark. Its hindwings are strikingly colored with a broad, vibrant red band, a wide black subterminal band, and a white fringe.
