Catocala whitneyi

Dodge, 1874

Whitney's Underwing

Catocala whitneyi is an underwing in the Erebidae, first described by G. M. Dodge in 1874. have a wingspan of 45–50 mm and are active from July to August in a single . The is notable for its cryptic forewings that conceal brightly patterned hindwings, a defensive trait common to the Catocala.

Catocala whitneyi YPM ENT 766254 D by Diebold, M.. Used under a CC0 license.CATALOGUE-BM-PLATE CC by Sir GEORGE F. HAMPSON, Bart.. Used under a Public domain license.Catocala whitneyi YPM ENT 766254 V by Diebold, M.. Used under a CC0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Catocala whitneyi: /kætəˈkeɪlə ˈwɪtni.aɪ/

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Identification

Members of Catocala are recognized by their underwing posture: forewings held together over the back at rest, hiding the hindwings beneath. Specific identification of C. whitneyi requires examination of hindwing pattern and genitalia characters. The occurs in the northern Great Plains and upper Midwest, with records west to Utah, distinguishing it from eastern and southern Catocala species.

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Appearance

have a wingspan of 45–50 mm. Like other underwing moths, forewings are dull-colored and cryptic, serving as camouflage when at rest with wings folded. Hindwings are concealed beneath forewings and display bold coloration when exposed.

Habitat

Associated with supporting larval plants in the Amorpha. Found in prairie and open woodland environments across its range.

Distribution

North America: North Dakota, Nebraska, and Kansas eastward through Wisconsin to Ohio and Tennessee. Western records include Minnesota and Utah. In Canada, recorded from Manitoba.

Seasonality

active July to August in one per year; timing varies by location.

Diet

Larvae feed on Amorpha .

Host Associations

  • Amorpha - larval plantLarval food source

Life Cycle

One per year; emerge mid-summer.

Behavior

are and attracted to light. Like other Catocala , they typically remain on the periphery of light stations rather than landing directly on illuminated sheets.

Ecological Role

Larval herbivore on Amorpha; likely serve as prey for and may contribute to pollination.

Similar Taxa

  • Other Catocala speciesShare underwing posture and general ; require hindwing pattern and genitalia examination for definitive identification

More Details

Etymology

The specific epithet 'whitneyi' honors an individual; the 'Whitney's Underwing' reflects this dedication.

Taxonomic History

Originally described by G. M. Dodge in 1874 in Canadian Entomologist.

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Sources and further reading