Black-signed Heath Moth
Common NameBlack-signed Heath Moth
Scientific NameMacaria signaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)22.5
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black
HabitatConiferous and mixed forests, heathlands, open woodlands
Geographic RangeHolarctic; widespread across North America (Canada and northern US), Europe, and Asia
Host Plantsspruce, fir, pine, hemlock
Flight PeriodMay to August (North America), May to July (Europe), often two broods
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are 'looper' caterpillars that feed on conifer needles. The species typically overwinters as a pupa.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive grey-brown cryptic coloration with two strong, dark, wavy lines across the forewings, often appearing S-shaped or M-shaped, in coniferous forest habitats.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with mottled grey-brown forewings marked by two prominent, dark, wavy transverse lines and a series of dark dashes along the outer margin.
