Mother Underwing Moth
Common NameMother Underwing Moth
Scientific NameCatocala parta
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)80
Primary Colorsgrey, orange, black, white
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, forests, riparian areas
Geographic RangeEastern and central North America, from Nova Scotia to British Columbia, south to Florida and Texas
Host Plantspoplar, willow
Flight PeriodJuly to September
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs overwinter in bark crevices, larvae hatch in spring and feed on host plant leaves, pupation occurs in early summer, and adults emerge in mid-summer.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its large size, cryptically patterned grey forewings, and bright orange hindwings featuring two prominent black bands, the inner band often having an irregular or 'W' shape.
Description
A large moth with mottled grey and white forewings that provide camouflage, contrasting sharply with its vibrant orange hindwings marked by two broad black bands.
