Sad Underwing
Common NameSad Underwing
Scientific NameCatocala maestosa
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)90
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black, white
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, riparian areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Ontario and Quebec south to Florida and west to Texas and Kansas
Host Plantshickory, walnut
Flight PeriodJuly to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThis species is univoltine, producing one generation per year. Eggs overwinter, larvae hatch in spring to feed on host trees, pupate in summer, and adults emerge in late summer and fall.
Identification TipsKey identification features include its large size, the mottled grey and brown forewing pattern, and the uniformly dark hindwings with a prominent white fringe, distinguishing it from other large Catocala species.
Description
A large moth characterized by its cryptically patterned grey and brown forewings that resemble tree bark, and dark brown to black hindwings edged with a distinct white fringe.
