Little Underwing
Common NameLittle Underwing
Scientific NameCatocala minuta
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, black, yellow, brown
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, forest edges, open forests
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Ontario and Quebec south to Florida and west to Texas and Kansas
Host PlantsHoney Locust (Gleditsia triacanthos), Black Locust (Robinia pseudoacacia)
Flight PeriodJune to September
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are cryptic grey-brown caterpillars that feed on the leaves of locust trees. They pupate in a cocoon, often in leaf litter or loose soil, before emerging as nocturnal adults.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its relatively small size for an underwing moth, the mottled grey-brown forewings, and the bright yellow hindwings with a distinct black median band and black border. The specific forewing pattern helps differentiate it from other Catocala species.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled grey and brown forewings providing excellent camouflage against tree bark, and striking yellow hindwings with a broad black median band and a black border, visible only when the moth is disturbed or in flight.
