Dry Leaf Looper Moth
Common NameDry Leaf Looper Moth
Scientific NamePhalaenostoma loxomita
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyHypeninae
Wingspan (mm)28
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, reddish-brown, grey-brown
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host Plantsoak, maple, hickory
Flight PeriodApril to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae are caterpillars that feed on deciduous trees, pupating before emerging as adults.
Identification TipsLook for its remarkable dry leaf mimicry, including the irregular, wavy wing margins and the prominent dark line that mimics a leaf vein, especially when resting with wings held flat.
Description
This moth is an exceptional mimic of a dry leaf, featuring mottled brown coloration, a wavy outer wing margin, and a distinct dark line across the wings resembling a leaf's midrib.
