Black Looper
Common NameBlack Looper
Scientific NamePhigalia titea
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)38
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey
HabitatDeciduous and mixed forests, woodlands, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, elm, cherry
Flight PeriodFebruary to April
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typical 'loopers' or 'inchworms' that mimic twigs. They pupate in the soil over summer and fall, with adults emerging in late winter or early spring.
Identification TipsKey features include its mottled brown and grey pattern, the broad and slightly scalloped wings, and its characteristic early spring flight period. Males have fully developed wings and feathery antennae, while females are flightless.
Description
The Black Looper is a medium-sized moth with broad, somewhat irregular wings. Its cryptic coloration consists of mottled shades of brown and grey, providing effective camouflage.
