Pale-winged Wave
Common NamePale-winged Wave
Scientific NameProtitame subalbaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorspale cream, light brown
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, shrubby areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia west to Manitoba and south to Florida and Texas
Host PlantsPrunus, Crataegus, Salix, Populus, Betula, Acer, Quercus
Flight PeriodMay to early July, and late July to September (bivoltine)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae are typical 'inchworms' or 'loopers' that feed on various deciduous trees and shrubs, pupating in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its overall pale, almost washed-out appearance, small size, and the characteristic faint, wavy light brown lines across its wings. The specific pattern of these lines helps differentiate it from other similar pale geometers.
Description
A small, delicate moth with pale cream to whitish wings, subtly marked with several faint, wavy, light brown transverse lines and scattered brown speckles.
