Juniper Looper
Common NameJuniper Looper
Scientific NameDigrammia muscariata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgray, brown, black
HabitatForests, woodlands, rocky slopes, and open areas where juniper and cedar grow.
Geographic RangeWestern North America, including parts of the United States (e.g., Arizona, California, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, Texas) and Mexico.
Host PlantsJuniperus, Cupressus, Thuja, Chamaecyparis
Flight PeriodMarch to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are 'loopers' or 'inchworms' that feed on the foliage of various conifers, primarily juniper. Pupation typically occurs in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsKey features include its mottled gray-brown coloration, faint wavy transverse lines, a small dark discal spot on the forewing, and its strong association with juniper and cedar host plants.
Description
A small to medium-sized geometer moth with mottled grayish-brown wings, often exhibiting faint wavy lines and a small dark discal spot on the forewing, providing excellent camouflage.
