Tag: moths

Catocala cara

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Underwing moths (Catocala spp.) are known for having dull, camouflaging forewings, and brightly colored hindwings which they suddenly flash open if disturbed. It is believed that the patterning of the hindwings resembles the eyes of a predatory animal, such as a cat. A bird or other small predator that is not used to this display is likely to be frightened, allowing the moth to escape.

Of the more than 250 known species, slightly less than half are found in North America—mostly in the United States—while the rest occur in Eurasia.

white-lined sphinx moth

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I found this big fatty in the bathroom this morning. It’s a White-lined Sphinx Moth, also known as a hummingbird moth, so called because, in poor light, it can be mistaken for a hummingbird as it hovers at tubular flowers, sipping nectar with a long proboscis. Adult moths have a wingspan of up to 90mm/3.5 inches.

Here’s hoping no eggs get laid in the veggie garden. According to this article, “Larvae can occasionally occur in tremendous numbers and can move in hordes in search of food, consuming entire plants and covering roadways in slick masses.” Fun times!