Poinciana Looper
Common NamePoinciana Looper
Scientific NamePerasia truncata
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, purplish-grey
HabitatSubtropical and tropical forests, gardens, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeSouthern Florida, Caribbean, Central America, South America
Host PlantsDelonix regia, other Fabaceae
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are 'loopers' or semi-loopers, characterized by their distinctive looping movement as they crawl. They feed on the leaves of host plants before pupating.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its cryptic brown and grey mottled forewings with distinct wavy transverse lines and a somewhat triangular shape when at rest, blending well with bark or leaf litter.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled brown, tan, and purplish-grey forewings featuring intricate wavy lines and darker markings, providing excellent camouflage.
