Tissue Moth
Common NameTissue Moth
Scientific NameTriphosa haesitata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, black
HabitatWoodlands, forests, riparian areas
Geographic RangeNorth America (widespread across Canada and the United States)
Host PlantsRhamnus (buckthorn), Ceanothus
Flight PeriodMarch to May, July to October (bivoltine)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe Tissue Moth typically has two broods per year. Adults from the second brood overwinter, emerging in early spring to lay eggs. Larvae feed on host plants, pupate, and emerge as adults for the summer brood.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive scalloped outer margin of the hindwings and the complex, wavy, mottled brown and grey pattern on both forewings and hindwings. A prominent dark band often runs across the forewing.
Description
This moth has mottled brown and grey wings with intricate wavy lines and darker bands, giving it a cryptic appearance. The hindwings have a distinctly scalloped outer margin.
