Defensaria Carpet
Common NameDefensaria Carpet
Scientific NameXanthorhoe defensaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, cream
HabitatConiferous forests, woodlands, and forest edges
Geographic RangeWestern North America, including the Pacific Northwest and Rocky Mountains
Host PlantsDouglas-fir, hemlock, fir
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLike other geometrids, it undergoes complete metamorphosis; the larvae are 'loopers' or 'inchworms' that feed on coniferous trees, and the species typically overwinters in the pupal stage.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the distinctive broad, dark brown central band on the forewings, which is sharply defined by wavy lighter lines, and the overall cryptic coloration of grey, brown, and cream mottling.
Description
This moth displays mottled forewings in shades of brown, grey, and cream, characterized by a prominent, broad dark brown central band with wavy borders. The intricate pattern provides excellent camouflage against tree bark.
