Spotted Manuka Looper
Common NameSpotted Manuka Looper
Scientific NameDeclana floccosa
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, white
HabitatNative forests, shrublands, and gardens
Geographic RangeNew Zealand
Host PlantsLeptospermum scoparium (Manuka), Kunzea ericoides (Kanuka), Coprosma, Hebe, Podocarpus
Flight PeriodSeptember to May (Southern Hemisphere)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are 'loopers' or 'inchworms' that are well-camouflaged, resembling twigs. They feed on various native trees and shrubs before pupating in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its mottled, somewhat 'fluffy' grey-brown wings with subtle darker markings, and its robust, hairy body. The cryptic coloration helps it blend into its woody environment.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled grey, brown, and whitish wings, giving it a cryptic, 'flocculent' or woolly appearance. The body is stout and very hairy.
