Whitney’s Underwing
Specimen photo from University of Minnesota Insect Collection
A medium to large moth with gray forewings with brown shading and two distinct black markings. The hindwings are yellow with two black bands running down them.
Status in North Dakota
Possible resident.
Range Map
Whitney’s Underwing possible range (light gray). Few state records.
Reason for SWAP Designation
SGCN (a). Regionally or globally imperiled.
Threats
The loss and degradation of native grasslands and shrublands, as well as habitat fragmentation, are the primary causes for species decline.
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 abundance in ND.
Management Recommendations
- Develop pollinator habitat.
- Protect and manage high quality native prairie.
- Use host plant in native grass seedings where applicable.
- Plant native nectar plants to improve habitat.
Primary Geological Regions
Habitat Associations
Habitat Use
Dry-mesic prairies, woodland edges, savannas, shrublands and other habitats where its host plant is found (leadplant, Amorpha canescens).