Common Lytrosis Moth
Common NameCommon Lytrosis Moth
Scientific NameLytrosis unitaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)42.5
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, grey, dark brown
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, forest edges
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia south to Florida, west to Texas and Manitoba
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, willow, cherry
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are twig mimics, feeding on various deciduous trees and shrubs. They pupate in the soil, and adults emerge in late spring to summer.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive scalloped wing margins and the intricate, wavy brown and tan banding pattern across both forewings and hindwings, which helps it blend with tree bark.
Description
This moth has broad, scalloped wings with a complex pattern of wavy lines and bands in shades of brown, tan, and grey, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark.
