Reticulated Moth
Common NameReticulated Moth
Scientific NameNematocampa reticulata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)22
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, cream
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, forests, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada south to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, willow, cherry, hickory
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are 'looper' caterpillars, mimicking twigs. They feed on various deciduous trees and shrubs, pupating in the soil or leaf litter, with adults emerging in spring and summer.
Identification TipsEasily identified by its unique reticulated (net-like) pattern of cream lines on brown wings and its somewhat scalloped wing margins. No other North American moth has this exact pattern.
Description
A small moth with broad, somewhat scalloped wings featuring a distinctive net-like pattern of cream to pale brown lines on a darker brown background, providing excellent camouflage.
