Ruddy Metarranthis Moth
Common NameRuddy Metarranthis Moth
Scientific NameMetarranthis apiciaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsruddy brown, pale brown
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, forests, and shrubby areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southeastern Canada south to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, cherry, blueberry
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae are 'looper' caterpillars that feed on the leaves of various deciduous trees and shrubs before pupating.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive ruddy brown coloration, the faint wavy lines across the wings, and the small dark discal spot. Males have noticeably feathery (pectinate) antennae.
Description
A medium-sized moth characterized by its ruddy brown to reddish-brown wings, often with a mottled appearance and faint, wavy transverse lines. A small dark discal spot is usually present on the forewings.
