Mourning Underwing
Common NameMourning Underwing
Scientific NameCatocala flebilis
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)50
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black, dark blue, white
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Ontario and Quebec south to Florida, west to Texas and Kansas
Host Plantshickory, walnut
Flight PeriodAugust to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs overwinter and hatch in spring. Larvae feed on the leaves of host trees, pupating in leaf litter or soil. Adults emerge in late summer.
Identification TipsKey features include the mottled grey-brown forewings with intricate patterns, and the dark blue hindwings with a prominent white terminal band. The forewing pattern provides excellent camouflage.
Description
A medium-sized moth with cryptically patterned grey and brown forewings that mimic tree bark, and striking dark blue hindwings with a broad white fringe.
