Three-patched Bigwing
Common NameThree-patched Bigwing
Scientific NamePhaeoura quernaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, suburban areas with host trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia west to Manitoba and south to Florida and Texas
Host Plantsoak, birch, maple, willow, hickory
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are twig mimics, camouflaged to blend with branches, and feed on the leaves of various deciduous trees before pupating in the soil.
Identification TipsKey features include the mottled grey-brown coloration with two distinct dark patches on the leading edge of the forewing and one on the hindwing, along with broad wings and a typical geometrid resting posture.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled grey-brown wings, featuring two prominent dark brown patches on the costal margin of the forewing and one on the hindwing, along with faint wavy transverse lines.
