Joined Underwing Moth
Common NameJoined Underwing Moth
Scientific NameCatocala junctura
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyCatocalinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Primary Colorsgrey, black, orange, white
HabitatRiparian woodlands, river valleys, areas with host trees
Geographic RangeCentral and eastern North America, from southern Ontario and Quebec south to Florida and west to Texas and Kansas
Host Plantswillow, poplar, cottonwood
Flight PeriodJuly to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs overwinter, larvae emerge in spring to feed on willow and poplar leaves, pupation occurs in early summer, and adults emerge from July to October.
Identification TipsLook for its large size, the specific mottled grey pattern of the forewings, and the bright orange hindwings with two distinct black bands and a white fringe. The inner black band on the hindwing is typically wider and more complete.
Description
A large moth with mottled grey and black forewings providing camouflage, and striking orange hindwings featuring two broad black bands and a white, scalloped fringe.
