Guernsey Underwing
Common NameGuernsey Underwing
Scientific NameCatocala promissa
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)65
Primary Colorsgreen, brown, orange, black
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, especially oak forests
Geographic RangeSouthern and Central Europe, North Africa, parts of Asia Minor
Host PlantsQuercus species (oak)
Flight PeriodJuly to September
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae, which are grey-brown and twig-like, feed on oak leaves. Pupation occurs in a cocoon among leaves or in the soil, with adults emerging in mid to late summer.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive mottled green and brown forewings, which are unusual among 'underwing' moths, contrasting sharply with the bright orange hindwings that display a prominent black band and a black streak near the body.
Description
A medium-sized moth characterized by its cryptically patterned green and brown forewings, which provide excellent camouflage, and striking orange hindwings featuring a broad black subterminal band and a black basal streak.
