The Darling Underwing
Common NameThe Darling Underwing
Scientific NameCatocala carissima
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)57.5
Primary Colorsbrown, black, red
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, forests, and areas with hickory trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Ontario and Quebec south to Florida and west to Texas and Oklahoma
Host PlantsHickory (Carya spp.)
Flight PeriodJuly to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are cryptic, twig-mimicking caterpillars that feed on the leaves of hickory trees. They pupate in a cocoon, often within leaf litter, before emerging as nocturnal adult moths.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the specific pattern of its bright red hindwings, which have two distinct black bands and a black, scalloped terminal border. The forewing pattern, while variable, also contributes to its unique appearance.
Description
This moth features mottled brown and black forewings that provide excellent camouflage, contrasting sharply with its vibrant red hindwings which display two prominent black bands and a black, scalloped border.
