Serene Underwing
Common NameSerene Underwing
Scientific NameCatocala cara
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Primary Colorsgray, brown, orange, black
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, riparian areas, forest edges
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada south to Florida and west to Texas and Kansas
Host Plantswillow, poplar
Flight PeriodJuly to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are cryptic, resembling twigs, and feed on willow and poplar leaves. They pupate in a cocoon in leaf litter or soil, emerging as adults in late summer.
Identification TipsThe combination of large size, mottled gray forewings, and the distinctive bright orange hindwings with a prominent black band makes it easily identifiable among other underwing moths.
Description
A large moth with mottled gray-brown forewings that camouflage it against tree bark, and striking orange hindwings featuring a broad black median band and a dark brown terminal band.
