Inconsolable Underwing
Common NameInconsolable Underwing
Scientific NameCatocala insolabilis
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)60
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, riparian areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Ontario and Quebec south to Florida and west to Texas and Kansas
Host PlantsCarya, Juglans
Flight PeriodJuly to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are twig-mimicking caterpillars that feed on hickory and walnut leaves. They pupate in leaf litter or soil, with adults emerging in late summer.
Identification TipsLook for its mottled grey-brown forewings with a pale subterminal band and a dark reniform spot. The uniformly dark hindwings with a white fringe, lacking any contrasting bands, are key to distinguishing it from similar underwing species.
Description
This medium-sized moth has cryptically patterned grey and brown forewings, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark. Its hindwings are a uniform dark brown to black with a white fringe, typically hidden at rest.
