Abstract In light of the recent discovery of an unrecognized species within nominal Zale lunifera (Hubner), the taxonomy of Z. lunifera is reassessed. Zale intenta (Walker), stat. rev. is the name that applies to the widespread species previously called Z. lunifera. Zale lunifera sensu stricto is the species previously thought to be undescribed; it occurs from the southern Atlantic coastal plain northward to the pine barrens of north-eastern United States. A differential diagnosis and adult illustrations of the two species are given.