Habilis Underwing
Common NameHabilis Underwing
Scientific NameCatocala habilis
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)47.5
Primary Colorsgrey, black, orange, white
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, forests, and areas with host trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantshickory (Carya spp.), walnut (Juglans spp.)
Flight PeriodAugust to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the leaves of hickory and walnut trees, pupating in a cocoon. Adults emerge in late summer and fall, and the species overwinters in the egg stage.
Identification TipsKey features include the mottled grey forewings with a distinct subreniform spot, and the hindwings' specific pattern of a broad black median band and a narrower black terminal band on an orange background. It can be distinguished from similar underwings by the precise shape and width of these hindwing bands.
Description
A medium-sized moth with cryptically patterned grey and black forewings that provide excellent camouflage, contrasting sharply with its vibrant orange hindwings featuring a broad black median band and a black terminal band.
