New Zealand Looper
Common NameNew Zealand Looper
Scientific NameDeclana floccosa
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, black
HabitatNative forests, shrublands, gardens, open woodlands
Geographic RangeNew Zealand
Host PlantsLeptospermum scoparium, Kunzea ericoides, Coprosma spp., Hebe spp.
Flight PeriodAll year, with peak activity in warmer months
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are known as 'loopers' or 'inchworms' due to their distinctive looping movement, and they often mimic twigs for camouflage. Pupation typically occurs in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive cryptic forewing pattern with dark, irregular bands and a central dark spot, contrasting with the plainer, paler hindwings. The characteristic 'looper' larvae are also a key identifier.
Description
This moth has mottled brown and grey forewings with irregular dark bands and a prominent dark discal spot, providing excellent camouflage. The hindwings are a more uniform, paler grey-brown.
