Pink Underwing
Common NamePink Underwing
Scientific NameCatocala concumbens
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyCatocalinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, pink, black, white
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, forests, areas with host trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia west to Manitoba and south to Florida and Texas
Host Plantswillow, poplar, aspen
Flight PeriodJuly to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in bark crevices and overwinter. Larvae emerge in spring, feed on willow and poplar leaves, then pupate in leaf litter. Adults emerge in summer.
Identification TipsKey features include the cryptic grey forewings with wavy lines and dark spots, and the distinct bright pink (or reddish-pink) and black striped hindwings with a white fringe, which are typically hidden at rest.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled grey and brown forewings that provide excellent camouflage, contrasting sharply with its vibrant pink and black striped hindwings, which are revealed during flight or when disturbed.
