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Yellow-Gray Underwing

Yellow-Gray Underwing

Catocala retecta

A species of Underwings

Catocala retecta, the yellow-gray underwing, is a moth of the family Erebidae. The species was first described by Augustus Radcliffe Grote in 1872. It can be found in North America from southern Ontario and Quebec south through Maine and New Jersey, south through Tennessee to Georgia and west to Arkansas and Kansas and north to Wisconsin. There is one recognised subspecies, Catocala retecta luctuosa, which is sometimes treated as a valid species with the common name yellow-fringed underwing. The wingspan is 60–75 mm. The moths flies from July to October depending on the location. The larvae feed on Juglans and Carya species.

General Info About Yellow-Gray Underwing
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Attributes of Yellow-Gray Underwing
Colors
Black
Gray
White
Habitat
field
Adult Food Sources
Nectar from flowers, tree sap, overripe fruit, honeydew, plant fluids
Larva Food Source
Leaves of populus species (poplar), leaves of salix species (willow), leaves of betula species (birch), leaves of alnus species (alder), leaves of ulmus species (elm)
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
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Species Status of Yellow-Gray Underwing
Not endangered
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Distribution Area of Yellow-Gray Underwing
North America
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Life Cycle of Yellow-Gray Underwing
Egg Upon oviposition, the egg of yellow-Gray Underwing presents a convex shape with distinguishable ridges or markings. The size is minute and the color usually blends with the substrate to evade predators. This stage is for embryonic development.
Larva The larvae of yellow-Gray Underwing emerge as caterpillars, featuring a cylindrical body with distinct banding or color patterns for camouflage or warning. They undergo several molts, significantly increasing in size with each stage, and are dedicated to feeding.
Pupal In the pupal stage, yellow-Gray Underwing undergoes a considerable transformation within a cocoon or chrysalis. It's immobile, with external camouflage. Internally, body structures are dramatically reorganized preparing for adult emergence.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult yellow-Gray Underwing's development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction.
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Predators of Yellow-Gray Underwing Larvae
Birds, rodents, reptiles, spiders, insectivorous insects
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Predators of Adult Yellow-Gray Underwing
Bats, birds, spiders
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Scientific Classification of Yellow-Gray Underwing
Tips for Finding Yellow-Gray Underwing
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Youth Habitat of Yellow-Gray Underwing
Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas
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Adult Habitat of Yellow-Gray Underwing
Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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How Can You Attract Yellow-Gray Underwing
Yellow-Gray Underwing as adults are attracted to light and sugary substances, so a light trap or a bait with sweet food can be used to attract them.
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Habitat Preferences of Yellow-Gray Underwing Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of yellow-Gray Underwing can generally be found on the undersides of leaves from preferred host plants, often trees or shrubs in well-vegetated areas. The caterpillars typically dwell on the host plants they feed on, camouflaged among leaves and branches. When searching for the larvae, inspect the leaves for signs of feeding or silk threads. Pupae may be found in loose soil or leaf litter near the host plant, as they tend to drop to the ground to pupate. Adults, being nocturnal, are frequently found near light sources at night or resting on tree trunks during the day. To find adults, it's best to look around lights after dark or search for them on trees during daylight hours.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Yellow-Gray Underwing
The suitable time to find yellow-Gray Underwing in adult form is usually at night when they are most active and attracted to light sources. The larval stages can be found during the day on host plants, but they are most easily located at dawn or dusk.
Are Yellow-Gray Underwing harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Yellow-Gray Underwing
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Hurt Plant

Yellow-Gray Underwing larvae are generalist feeders, causing damage to plant leaves. Infestation levels can range from mild to severe, leading to defoliation and compromised plant vitality.

More Effects of Yellow-Gray Underwing

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