Canadian Melanolophia Moth
Common NameCanadian Melanolophia Moth
Scientific NameMelanolophia canadaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorstan, brown, dark brown
HabitatDeciduous and mixed forests, woodlands
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southeastern Canada south to Florida and west to Texas and Manitoba
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, beech, cherry, willow
Flight PeriodApril to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are 'inchworms' or loopers that feed on the leaves of various deciduous trees and shrubs. They pupate in the soil or leaf litter, and adults typically emerge in the spring.
Identification TipsKey features include the mottled tan and brown cryptic pattern, broad wings, and a distinct dark discal spot on the forewings, often accompanied by wavy postmedial lines. Males have feathery (bipectinate) antennae.
Description
A medium-sized moth with broad, mottled tan and brown wings, featuring irregular dark bands and spots, and a distinct discal spot on the forewings.
