Oblique Looper Moth
Common NameOblique Looper Moth
Scientific NamePhlogophora periculosa
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyXyleninae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorsgray, brown, tan, dark brown
HabitatWoodlands, forests, gardens, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia south to Florida and west to Texas and Manitoba
Host Plantsmaple, birch, willow, oak, aster, goldenrod, plantain, dandelion, clover
Flight PeriodMay to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are 'loopers' (inchworms) that feed on a variety of herbaceous plants and deciduous trees. Pupation occurs in the soil, and the species typically overwinters as a larva or pupa.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinctive oblique dark line running from the forewing apex towards the inner margin, combined with the mottled gray-brown, bark-like pattern and wavy transverse lines across the wings.
Description
This medium-sized moth has mottled gray and brown forewings with intricate wavy dark lines and a prominent oblique dark line extending from the wing apex. Its cryptic coloration provides excellent camouflage against bark or dead leaves.
