Sordid Underwing
Common NameSordid Underwing
Scientific NameCatocala sordida
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, orange, black
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, areas with host trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia south to Florida, west to Texas and Manitoba
Host Plantshickory (Carya spp.), pignut hickory (Carya glabra)
Flight PeriodJuly to September
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on hickory leaves, pupating in leaf litter or soil. Adults are nocturnal and attracted to light and fermenting fruit bait.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its mottled grey-brown forewings and the specific pattern of two broad black bands on the orange hindwings, which lack the jagged or wavy patterns seen in some other orange-banded underwings.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled grey-brown forewings for camouflage, and vibrant orange hindwings featuring two prominent black bands, visible during flight or when disturbed.
