Fauna
Insect

Semirelict Underwing Moth

Catocala semirelicta

Also known as Semirelict Underwing

Semirelict underwing moths display remarkable crypsis, resting motionless on mottled tree trunks with forewings that mirror rough bark. When startled, they flash brilliant red or pink hindwings banded in dark brown to momentarily confuse foliage-gleaning predators. Caterpillars feed on willows and poplars along mountain streams and northern woodland corridors before overwintering as eggs.

CamouflagedNocturnalMoth
Semirelict Underwing Moth reference1 / 5
(c) Katrina Smith, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
—observations
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Not EvaluatedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNot Evaluated — not placed on the risk ladderRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyPoplar foliage, Willow foliage, Tree sap
Predators
  • Bats
  • Songbirds
  • Spiders
ThreatsHabitat loss, light pollution, and pesticide application in forested areas.
HabitatsRiparian woodlands, aspen groves, mixed northern forests, and mountain valleys.
Life span1 year
Classification
  1. OrderLepidoptera
  2. FamilyErebidae
  3. GenusCatocala
  4. SpeciesCatocala semirelicta
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
  • Light Attraction: Set up a blacklight and white sheet on summer nights to lure adults.
  • Bark Inspection: Search poplar and willow trunks during late summer days for roosting moths.
Related species
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Found in Collections

Species set

Moonlight Marvels

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