Putnam's Looper Moth
Common NamePutnam's Looper Moth
Scientific NamePlusia putnami
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyPlusiinae
Wingspan (mm)33
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange-brown, silver
HabitatMoist woodlands, bogs, fens, and other wetland areas
Geographic RangeNorth America (Canada, northern US), Eurasia
Host PlantsCarex spp. (sedges), grasses, Typha spp. (cattails)
Flight PeriodMay to October (often two broods)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are green 'looper' caterpillars that feed on various wetland plants. They pupate in a cocoon, often attached to host plant leaves.
Identification TipsLook for the golden-brown forewings with two prominent, often fused, silvery-white spots near the center. The raised, dark brown thoracic tuft is also a key identifying feature.
Description
A medium-sized moth with golden-brown forewings featuring distinctive silvery-white spots and a prominent, raised tuft of scales on its thorax.
