Cypress Looper
Common NameCypress Looper
Scientific NameAnacamptodes cypressaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)24
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, white
HabitatCypress swamps, wetlands, areas with bald cypress and pond cypress
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States (Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, South Carolina)
Host PlantsBald cypress, Pond cypress
Flight PeriodYear-round in warm climates, otherwise spring to fall
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are 'inchworms' or loopers, feeding on the needles of cypress trees. Pupation typically occurs in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsKey features include its cryptic grey and brown coloration with wavy lines, particularly the prominent postmedial line, and its strong association with cypress-dominated habitats in the southeastern US.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with mottled grey and brown forewings, featuring distinct wavy dark lines and a paler subterminal band, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark.
