The geometer moths are one of the largest families of moths currently present, with over 23,000 species listed under it. Their name combines the Ancient Greek words geo, meaning “the earth,” and metron meaning “measure”.
The larvae are brown, green, or grey, resembling a twig in appearance. Due to their unique looping movements, these caterpillars have often been nicknamed “loopers”. They are 2.5 cm long in their final instar.
Pupa
These moths pupate in loose soil or leaf litter.
Adult Moth
Sexual Dimorphism: Present. Some females lack wings or possess atrophied wings.
Color and Appearance
When opened, the wings of these moths have been shown to have a continuous pattern on both the fore- and hindwings. These colors and patterns remain visible even when closed.
Average wingspan: 3 cm; though the range is from 1-5 cm
Flight pattern: Erratic
Season: April through November
Egg
The color of the eggs varies from specimen to specimen, ranging from green to brown to white. They are either laid singly or in a cluster.
Quick Facts
Other names
Inchworms, spanworms
Distribution
Global
Habitat
Vegetated areas, especially woodlands
Lifespan of Adults
2-3 months
Predators
Birds
Host Plants
Wooden trees and shrubbery
Adult Diet
Does not feed
Did You Know
English zoologist William Elford Leach first described the geometer moths in 1815.
