Twig Looper
Common NameTwig Looper
Scientific NameNematocampa resistaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey-brown, dark brown
HabitatDeciduous and mixed forests, woodlands, gardens
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia south to Florida, west to Texas and Manitoba
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, willow, apple, blueberry, rose
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are known as 'inchworms' or 'loopers' due to their distinctive locomotion and remarkable ability to mimic twigs, often holding themselves rigid at an angle to blend with their surroundings.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the mottled brown and grey coloration, the wavy wing margins, and the distinct dark triangular mark on the forewings. The overall cryptic appearance helps it blend seamlessly with bark or wood.
Description
This moth exhibits broad, wavy-edged wings with a mottled brown and grey-brown pattern, providing excellent camouflage. Its forewings feature several dark, wavy transverse lines and a prominent dark triangular mark near the thorax.
