Stout Spanworm Moth
Common NameStout Spanworm Moth
Scientific NameLambdina fiscellaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)38
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, black, white, brown
HabitatDeciduous and mixed forests, woodlands
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, beech, hemlock
Flight PeriodAugust to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae, known as spanworms or loopers, feed on the foliage of various deciduous trees. They overwinter as eggs, hatch in spring, pupate in summer, and adults emerge in late summer and fall.
Identification TipsKey features for identification include the distinctive cryptic pattern of mottled grey and black with wavy lines, a stout and hairy body, and notably feathery antennae in males.
Description
This moth displays a mottled grey, black, and white cryptic pattern on its wings, marked with several wavy, dark lines. Its body is stout and hairy, complemented by prominent feathery antennae, particularly in males.
