Large Hebe Looper
Common NameLarge Hebe Looper
Scientific NameDeclana egregia
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)48
Primary Colorslight brown, tan, dark brown
HabitatNative forests, shrublands, gardens
Geographic RangeNew Zealand (North and South Islands)
Host PlantsHebe, Coprosma, Olearia
Flight PeriodOctober to May
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae are 'loopers' or 'inchworms' that feed on the foliage of host plants, particularly Hebe species. Pupation typically occurs in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its overall light brown, speckled appearance, broad wings, and the characteristic faint wavy lines and dark spots on both forewings and hindwings. The 'looper' larval stage is also a key identifier for the family.
Description
A medium-sized moth with broad, light brown to tan wings covered in numerous fine dark speckles and faint wavy lines. The forewings feature a few more prominent dark spots.
