Praeclara Underwing Moth
Common NamePraeclara Underwing Moth
Scientific NameCatocala praeclara
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, yellow, black
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, orchards
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to the southeastern United States
Host PlantsCrataegus spp. (hawthorn), Malus spp. (apple)
Flight PeriodJuly to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae feed on the leaves of hawthorn and apple trees, pupating in leaf litter or soil before emerging as adults.
Identification TipsKey features include the camouflaged, often greenish-grey forewings with intricate patterns, and the striking yellow hindwings with a distinct, slightly irregular black median band and a dark brown outer margin, revealed when the moth is disturbed.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled grey and brown cryptic forewings that conceal vibrant yellow hindwings marked with a broad black median band and a dark terminal border.
