Walnut Spanworm Moth
Common NameWalnut Spanworm Moth
Scientific NamePhigalia titea
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia south to Florida, west to Texas and Manitoba
Host Plantsoak, maple, walnut, hickory, birch, elm, cherry
Flight PeriodFebruary to April
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are 'inchworms' that feed on various deciduous trees. They pupate in the soil, and adults emerge in late winter to early spring. Females are flightless and attract males with pheromones.
Identification TipsMales are recognized by their mottled grey-brown wings and prominent bipectinate antennae. The flightless females are often found on tree trunks during their early spring emergence.
Description
This moth has mottled grey and brown forewings with faint darker wavy lines, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark. Males possess distinctive feathery antennae.
