Morsicaria Moth
Common NameMorsicaria Moth
Scientific NameSicya morsicaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorstan, cream, brown
HabitatDeciduous and mixed forests, woodlands
Geographic RangeEastern North America (from Quebec to Florida, west to Texas and Manitoba)
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, willow, cherry
Flight PeriodApril to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae are 'inchworms' or 'loopers' feeding on various deciduous trees and shrubs. Overwinters as a pupa.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive wavy, irregular dark brown band across the forewing, contrasting with the lighter tan or cream ground color, and the overall speckled appearance.
Description
A medium-sized moth with light tan to cream forewings featuring a prominent, irregular, wavy dark brown band across the middle and scattered dark speckles. The hindwings are typically paler and less marked.
