Balsam Carpet
Common NameBalsam Carpet
Scientific NameXanthorhoe iduata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)28
Primary Colorsbrown, black, white, grey
HabitatConiferous forests, especially those with Balsam Fir
Geographic RangeEastern North America (eastern Canada and northeastern United States)
Host PlantsBalsam Fir (Abies balsamea)
Flight PeriodLate May to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are loopers (inchworms) that feed on the needles of Balsam Fir. They typically overwinter as pupae.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinctive broad, dark median band on the forewings, often with a reddish tint, and its association with Balsam Fir habitats. The jagged outer edge of the median band is also characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled grey-brown and white forewings featuring a prominent, broad, dark brown to reddish-brown median band, often with a jagged outer edge.
