Our insect of the week for November 24, 2025 is the yellow-banded underwing, Catocala cerogama [LEPIDOPTERA: Erebidae]. This moth is found throughout eastern and central North America (including central Illinois). It was originally described by the French entomologist Achille Guenée in 1852.

This species is often found in woodlands where the host plant, American basswood (Tilia americana) is found. This is the primary food for the caterpillar. Adults fly from July through October and are often attracted to lights at night. The species passes the winter in either the egg or pupal stage (depending on the region).

The adult moth in this photo was collected by Frank Hitchell in Peoria County, Illinois.