Thursday 19 September 2013

A delightful nocturnal visitor

Underwings are quite wonderful.
This large sphinx rests, with gray, browns, and beautiful camouflage. If you are able to gently pull aside the forewings, often there is a spot of colour!

It wasn't until I bought a more sophisticated moth book that I realized there WERE underwings.
That flash of red/orange is amazing.
There is also, a band of pale yellow at the bottom of the underwing.
UPDATE: It's been officially named by BAMONA experts:
Catocala amatrix
Sweetheart Underwing

Calling Daisy, who thinks she is a night owl, the spotlight, intended to dissuade coyotes, attracts the nocturnal moths. There are millions. The large sphinx moths are spectacular. Daisy came in on her own time.

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

Moths are so pretty and mysterious. They're often overlooked because of butterflies.
These are especially pretty.

eileeninmd said...

Very pretty moth, I like the colors and markings. Great shots!

Red said...

I've been watching for moths this year. I see very few of them.

Hilary said...

What a pretty insect. Lovely to see

Sallie (FullTime-Life) said...

Definitely my one thing to learn today. Thank you!