White Underwing
Common NameWhite Underwing
Scientific NameCatocala relicta
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyCatocalinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorswhite, black, grey
HabitatDeciduous and mixed forests, woodlands
Geographic RangeNorth America (eastern and central United States, southern Canada)
Host PlantsPopulus spp. (poplar, aspen), Salix spp. (willow), Betula spp. (birch)
Flight PeriodJuly to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are grey-brown loopers that feed on the leaves of host trees. They pupate in a cocoon in leaf litter or soil, and adults are nocturnal.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the distinctive mottled grey and white forewing pattern, and when disturbed, the flash of its bright white hindwings with a prominent black median band.
Description
A large moth with forewings cryptically patterned in mottled shades of white, grey, and black, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark. Its common name refers to its hindwings, which are bright white with a broad black median band (not visible in this dorsal view).
