Bruce Spanworm Moth
Common NameBruce Spanworm Moth
Scientific NameOperophtera bruceata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsgray, brown
HabitatDeciduous and mixed forests
Geographic RangeNorth America (eastern and central Canada, northeastern US, west to British Columbia, south in Appalachians)
Host Plantsmaple, birch, oak, aspen, apple, cherry, elm
Flight PeriodOctober to December
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs overwinter in bark crevices, hatching in spring. Larvae are green 'spanworms' that feed on tree leaves, pupating in the soil. Adults emerge in late fall.
Identification TipsMales are identified by their late fall flight period and distinctive wavy lines on pale grayish-brown forewings. Females are wingless.
Description
A small, slender-bodied moth with pale grayish-brown forewings marked by several wavy, darker brown transverse lines and a small discal spot. The hindwings are paler.
