Abbreviated Underwing
niversity of Minnesota Insect Collection
A medium-large moth with grayish/ brownish forewings and yellowish to orange hind wings. Both forewings and hind wings have dark markings. A thin straight line and a dark mark near the leading edge of the forewing and two transverse black bands on the hind wings.
Status in North Dakota
Resident.
Range Map
Abbreviated Underwing possible range (light gray). Few state records.
Reason for SWAP Designation
SGCN (c). At-risk, expert review or recent assessment.
Due to long-term and widespread habitat loss and fragmentation, the species has seen declines across its range.
Threats
The loss of native prairies that contain leadplant is the primary cause for species decline.
The species is also known for scattered and isolated populations across its range, leaving them more susceptible to extirpation due to catastrophic events such as wildfire and drought.
Research and Monitoring
Statewide pollinator surveys have been completed by the USFWS HAPET team and NDSU.
Pollinator surveys should continue throughout the state to determine species range and population trends in ND.
Management Recommendations
- Develop pollinator habitat.
- Protect and manage high quality native prairie.
- Develop connectivity between quality habitats.
- Include leadplant into plantings and restorations.
Primary Geological Regions
Habitat Associations
Habitat Use
Typically found in dry prairies that includes its host plant, Amorpha canescens (leadplant).