Widow Underwing
Common NameWidow Underwing
Scientific NameCatocala vidua
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)70
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, black, white
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, oak savannas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to Florida and west to Texas
Host PlantsOak (Quercus species)
Flight PeriodJuly to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the leaves of various oak species, pupating in leaf litter or soil before adults emerge in late summer.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the cryptic grey and black forewings, which contrast sharply with the solid black hindwings that have a prominent, clean white outer fringe.
Description
A large moth characterized by its mottled grey and black forewings that provide excellent camouflage, and solid black hindwings with a distinct white fringe.
