Sooty Parapholodes
Common NameSooty Parapholodes
Scientific NameParapholodes fuliginea
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, dark brown
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, mixed forests
Geographic RangeEastern North America (eastern United States and southeastern Canada)
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, willow
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae are 'inchworms' that feed on various deciduous trees and shrubs. Overwinters as a pupa in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsLook for the overall mottled brown and tan coloration with a distinct, irregular dark median band across the forewings. The hindwings often have a scalloped margin.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled brown and tan wings, featuring irregular dark brown bands and wavy lines that provide excellent camouflage against tree bark.
