Catocala semirelicta

Grote, 1874

Semirelict Underwing Moth

semirelicta is a medium-sized in the Erebidae, first described by Augustus Radcliffe Grote in 1874. Like other members of the Catocala, it possesses cryptic forewings that conceal brightly patterned hindwings, which are exposed when the is disturbed. The occurs across a broad North American range spanning from the Atlantic coast to the Pacific, with particular abundance in western mountainous regions.

Catocala semirelicta YPM ENT 448163 D by Baucom, K. M.. Used under a CC0 license.

Catocala semirelicta YPM ENT 448163 V by Baucom, K. M.. Used under a CC0 license.

Catocala semirelicta 86806787 by Dan MacNeal. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Catocala semirelicta: //kəˈtɒkələ ˌsemaɪˈrɛlɪktə//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Identification

Distinguished from other by geographic range and association with Populus and Salix plants in western North America. The specific hindwing pattern differs from related species, though precise diagnostic features require examination of specimens. C. s. hippolyta (sometimes treated as a distinct species) occurs in parts of the range.

Images

Appearance

Forewings are mottled gray-brown, serving as camouflage against tree bark. Hindwings display bold contrasting patterns typical of , though specific coloration details for this are not well documented in available sources. Wingspan measures 65–75 mm. Forewing length approximately 30 mm. Body is with a furry .

Habitat

Associated with riparian and montane forests where plants occur. Found in mixed conifer forests with oaks at elevations around 7,000 feet. Occupies from prairie wetlands with cottonwood groves to mountainous terrain.

Distribution

North America: Nevada, Colorado, Utah, California; east to Nova Scotia and Maine; west across Canada to British Columbia; southward in mountain ranges. Canadian provinces: Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan. Also recorded in Vermont.

Seasonality

active July to September. Single per year, with timing varying by location.

Diet

feed on Populus balsamifera (balsam poplar), Populus tremuloides (quaking aspen), and Salix (willows). feeding habits not documented.

Host Associations

Populus balsamifera - larval balsam poplar
Populus tremuloides - larval quaking aspen
Salix - larval willow

Life Cycle

Probably one per year. emerge mid-summer. Larval stage feeds on plant foliage. details not documented.

Behavior

are . Like other , typically rests with forewings folded over , concealing hindwings. When disturbed, flashes brightly colored hindwings to startle before taking . Attracted to lights, though often remains on periphery of light stations rather than landing directly on sheets.

Ecological Role

Larval on poplar and willow . likely serves as for including bats and owls. Potential , though not documented.

Human Relevance

Subject of interest to lepidopterists and citizen scientists during National Week events. No economic significance documented. Not known to be a .

Similar Taxa

Catocala hippolytaSometimes treated as C. s. hippolyta; relationship disputed
Other Catocala speciesShare cryptic forewing and colorful hindwing pattern; distinguished by specific hindwing markings and geographic distribution

More Details

Taxonomic Notes

Two recognized: C. s. semirelicta (Grote, 1874) and C. s. hippolyta (Strecker, 1874). The latter has been treated as a distinct by some authorities.

Research Needs

Basic details including , larval, and pupal descriptions are poorly documented. Specific hindwing coloration and pattern require better documentation in published sources.