Exelis Moth
Common NameExelis Moth
Scientific NameExelis ophiurus
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgray, whitish-gray, brown
HabitatConiferous forests, woodlands, mixed forests
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada south to Florida and west to Texas
Host PlantsPinus (pine species)
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae are loopers that feed on the needles of pine trees.
Identification TipsLook for its cryptic gray and white mottled pattern with wavy dark lines and a distinct dark discal spot on the forewings, which helps it blend seamlessly with tree bark.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled gray and whitish-gray wings, featuring several wavy dark lines and a prominent discal spot on the forewings, providing excellent camouflage.
