Large Purplish Gray
Common NameLarge Purplish Gray
Scientific NameIridopsis ephyraria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgray, brown, purple
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, willow, cherry
Flight PeriodApril to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are 'inchworms' that mimic twigs, feeding on various deciduous trees. They pupate in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its relatively large size for a geometrid, overall purplish-gray coloration, and prominent wavy transverse lines across both forewings and hindwings.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled purplish-gray and brown wings, featuring several wavy dark lines and a small discal spot on the forewings, providing excellent camouflage.
