Curved-lined Looper Moth
Common NameCurved-lined Looper Moth
Scientific NamePhigalia strigataria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia to Florida and west to Texas and Manitoba
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, elm, cherry, apple, willow
Flight PeriodFebruary to May
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are known as 'loopers' or 'inchworms' due to their characteristic looping gait, feeding on various deciduous tree leaves. Pupation occurs in the soil.
Identification TipsLook for its mottled brown/grey coloration with faint wavy lines and the male's feathery antennae. It is one of the earliest flying moths in spring. Females are wingless or have greatly reduced wings.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled brown and grey wings, featuring faint, wavy darker transverse lines. Males have distinctive feathery antennae.
