The Confederate
Common NameThe Confederate
Scientific NameCatocala judith
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)52.5
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsdark brown, black, pale grey, tan
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host PlantsHickory (Carya spp.)
Flight PeriodJune to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are cryptically colored caterpillars that feed on the leaves of hickory trees. They pupate in leaf litter or soil.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the specific mottled forewing pattern, particularly the distinct dark markings and jagged lines, and the black hindwings with a single broad white band (though not visible in this dorsal view).
Description
This moth has forewings with a complex, mottled pattern of dark brown, black, and pale grey/tan, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark. The hindwings (not visible) are typically black with a prominent white median band.
