Light Crimson Underwing
Common NameLight Crimson Underwing
Scientific NameCatocala promissa
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyCatocalinae
Wingspan (mm)50
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, black, white, crimson
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, oak forests, parks, large gardens
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe, North Africa, Asia Minor, Caucasus
Host PlantsQuercus robur, Quercus petraea
Flight PeriodJuly to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs overwinter in bark crevices of oak trees. Larvae hatch in spring and feed on oak leaves, pupating in leaf litter or soil before adults emerge in late summer.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its mottled grey and black forewings and the bright crimson hindwings featuring a prominent black subterminal band and a black basal streak. The specific pattern of the black band on the hindwings helps differentiate it from other red underwing species.
Description
A medium-sized moth with cryptically patterned forewings in shades of grey, black, and white, providing excellent camouflage. The hindwings, typically hidden at rest, are a striking crimson-red with a broad black subterminal band.
