Common Metarranthis Moth
Common NameCommon Metarranthis Moth
Scientific NameMetarranthis hypochraria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, reddish-brown
HabitatDeciduous and mixed forests, woodlands
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia south to Florida and west to Texas and Manitoba
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, cherry, blueberry, hawthorn
Flight PeriodApril to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are 'loopers' or inchworms, feeding on a variety of deciduous trees and shrubs. They typically pupate in the soil.
Identification TipsKey features include its overall mottled brown coloration with distinct wavy transverse lines across both forewings and hindwings, and its characteristic resting posture with wings spread flat.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled brown and tan wings, featuring several wavy, darker brown transverse lines that provide excellent camouflage against bark and dead leaves.
