Fragile White Carpet
Common NameFragile White Carpet
Scientific NameHydrelia inornata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorswhite, tan
HabitatMoist deciduous forests, woodlands, riparian areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Newfoundland south to Florida and west to Manitoba and Texas
Host Plantsbirch, alder, willow, maple, cherry
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are loopers (inchworms) that feed on the leaves of various deciduous trees and shrubs. Pupation occurs in the soil or leaf litter, and the species typically overwinters as a pupa.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, the predominantly white wings with subtle wavy tan lines, and the presence of small black discal spots on all wings. Its delicate, almost translucent appearance is also characteristic.
Description
A small, delicate moth with an overall white appearance, featuring several faint, wavy, light tan or brownish transverse lines across both forewings and hindwings, along with small black discal spots.
