White-streaked Looper Moth
Common NameWhite-streaked Looper Moth
Scientific NameHypena obsitalis
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyHypeninae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsbrown, gold, white
HabitatOpen woodlands, gardens, scrubland, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeSouthern Europe, North Africa, Middle East, parts of Asia; introduced to California, USA
Host Plantsnettles, pellitory, hop
Flight PeriodMultiple broods, year-round in warm climates, March to November in temperate regions
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are green with faint stripes, feeding on host plants. Pupation occurs in a loosely spun cocoon among leaves or on the ground. Multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsThe combination of the prominent "snout" (upturned palps), the triangular resting shape, and the single, sharp white diagonal streak on the coppery-brown forewings are key diagnostic features.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth characterized by its triangular resting posture, prominent upturned labial palps forming a "snout," and coppery-brown forewings marked with a distinct, straight white diagonal streak.
