Caramel Looper
Common NameCaramel Looper
Scientific NameCharadra deridens
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyPantheinae
Wingspan (mm)38
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsdark brown, grey, black, white
HabitatDeciduous and mixed forests, woodlands
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia west to Manitoba and south to Florida and Texas
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, elm, hickory
Flight PeriodApril to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically green with white stripes and feed on the leaves of various deciduous trees. They pupate in a cocoon, often found in leaf litter or soil.
Identification TipsKey features for identification include the distinctive jagged dark lines and prominent white markings on the forewings, particularly the white 'W' or crescent-like shapes. The overall cryptic, bark-like pattern is also a strong indicator.
Description
This moth exhibits a mottled dark brown and grey forewing pattern, characterized by jagged black lines and prominent white, somewhat crescent-shaped markings near the center. Its overall appearance provides excellent camouflage against tree bark.
