Green Garden Looper
Common NameGreen Garden Looper
Scientific NameAutographa precationis
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyPlusiinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsbrown, orange, grey, white
HabitatGardens, fields, woodlands, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host Plantsdandelion, plantain, aster, goldenrod, various garden vegetables
Flight PeriodMay to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are 'loopers' or 'inchworms' due to their reduced number of prolegs, causing them to arch their bodies when moving. They are typically green with pale stripes and pupate in a silken cocoon on host plants.
Identification TipsKey features for identification include the prominent dorsal tufts on the thorax and the distinctive two white/silver spots on the mottled forewings. The moth often rests with a 'humped' appearance.
Description
A medium-sized moth characterized by prominent dorsal tufts on its thorax. Its forewings are mottled with shades of brown, reddish-brown, and grey, featuring two distinct white or silvery spots: one larger and somewhat triangular, and one smaller and round.
