Spring Cankerworm Moth
Common NameSpring Cankerworm Moth
Scientific NamePaleacrita vernata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)25
Primary Colorslight-grey, black
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, urban areas, orchards
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia west to Manitoba and south to Florida and Texas
Host Plantsoak, elm, maple, apple, cherry, ash, basswood, birch
Flight PeriodMarch to May (early spring)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in early spring, hatching into 'inchworm' larvae that feed on tree leaves. Larvae drop to the soil to pupate, and adults emerge in late winter or early spring. Females are wingless.
Identification TipsMales are identified by their distinctive mottled grey forewings with dark crossbands and their emergence in early spring. The females are wingless and spider-like, often found crawling on tree trunks.
Description
The male Spring Cankerworm Moth has light blue-grey forewings heavily mottled with dark grey or black bands and lines, creating a cryptic pattern. Its hindwings are paler and unmarked.
