Silky Ochthophora
Common NameSilky Ochthophora
Scientific NameOchthophora sericina
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, gray
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, forests, and areas with host trees and shrubs
Geographic RangeEastern and Central North America (e.g., eastern US, parts of Canada)
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, willow, cherry
Flight PeriodMay to September (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae are loopers that feed on the leaves of various deciduous trees and shrubs. It typically overwinters as a pupa or egg.
Identification TipsKey features include the silky, mottled brown coloration, the characteristic wavy transverse lines on the forewings, and the feathery antennae of the male. The specific pattern of these lines helps distinguish it from similar geometrid moths.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with a mottled grayish-brown to tan appearance, featuring distinctive wavy dark lines across its forewings and often faint discal spots. Males possess prominent bipectinate (feathery) antennae.
