Little Shaded Lichen Moth
Common NameLittle Shaded Lichen Moth
Scientific NameEctropis crepuscularia
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)43
Primary Colorswhite, grey, brown, black
HabitatWoodlands, forests, gardens, and areas with deciduous and coniferous trees
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia, and North America
Host Plantsbirch, oak, willow, spruce, pine, larch, poplar
Flight PeriodApril to August
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae, known as loopers or inchworms, feed on a wide variety of deciduous and coniferous trees and shrubs. They pupate in the soil or leaf litter, often overwintering as pupae.
Identification TipsKey features include the overall mottled grey-brown appearance, often with a distinct dark discal spot on the forewing and wavy transverse lines. The pattern is highly variable, making identification challenging without considering geographic range and specific markings.
Description
A medium-sized moth characterized by its highly variable and intricate cryptic pattern of mottled white, grey, and dark brown markings, designed for camouflage on tree bark or lichens.
