Yellow-Gray Underwing
Common NameYellow-Gray Underwing
Scientific NameCatocala retecta
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)67.5
Primary Colorsgray, black, dark blue, white
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, forests, and areas with host trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada south to Florida and west to Texas
Host PlantsCarya (hickory), Juglans (walnut)
Flight PeriodJuly to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs overwinter, larvae feed on hickory and walnut leaves in spring, pupation occurs in early summer, and adults emerge from July to October.
Identification TipsKey features include the intricate, cryptic gray forewing pattern resembling lichen or bark, and the contrasting dark blue/black hindwings with a clean white fringe.
Description
This moth features mottled gray and black forewings that provide excellent camouflage against tree bark, while its hindwings are a striking dark blue to black with a prominent white fringe.
