Magdalen Underwing
Common NameMagdalen Underwing
Scientific NameCatocala ilia
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Primary Colorsgray, brown, orange, black
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, forests, parks, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to Florida and west to Texas and Kansas
Host PlantsQuercus rubra, Quercus alba, Quercus velutina
Flight PeriodJune to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs overwinter, hatching in spring. Larvae feed on oak leaves, pupate in leaf litter, and adults emerge in summer.
Identification TipsKey features include the broad, solid black median band on the orange hindwings that reaches the inner margin, and the black terminal band. Forewing coloration is variable but typically mottled gray-brown.
Description
A medium-to-large moth with cryptic, mottled gray-brown forewings that resemble tree bark. The hindwings are a striking bright orange with a prominent black median band and a black terminal band.
