Home / Geometer Moths (Geometridae) / Maple Spanworm Moth (Ennomos magnaria)

Maple Spanworm Moth (Ennomos magnaria)

The maple spanworm moth is a member of the family of geometer moths found in parts of North America. This species is known for its resemblance to an autumn leaf.

Maple Spanworm Moth

objects.liquidweb.services

Scientific Classification


  • Family: Geometridae
  • Genus: Ennomos
  • Scientific Name: Ennomos magnaria

Description and Identification

Caterpillar

Their bodies are brown, gray, or green with white spots, which helps them to mimic twigs.

Maple Spanworm Moth Caterpillar

discoverlife.org

Pupa

After maturing, the larvae pupate in cocoons hidden amongst foliage consisting of their host plants.

Adult Moth

Sexual Dimorphism: Present but not prominent.

Color and Appearance

When the wings are open, they resemble a red leaf commonly seen during fall. They are primarily orange-yellow with brown spots and a reddish-brown tinge near the outer edges. When the wings are closed, they appear uneven and scalloped.

Average wingspan: 4.3-6 cm

Flight pattern: Consistent

Season: July to early November

Ennomos magnaria

alchetron.com

Egg

Eggs overwinter during the colder periods.

Quick Facts

Other namesNotched wing moth, notched-wing geometer, notch-wing moth
DistributionNorth America; including southern Canada and the northern United States, in the states of California, Florida, and Louisiana
HabitatDeciduous and mixed forests and woodlots
Lifespan of AdultsNot recorded
Host PlantsAlder, ash, basswood, birch, elm, hickory, maple, oak, and poplar
Adult DietDoes not feed

Did You Know

  • French entomologist Achille Guenée first described this species in 1858.
Notched Wing Moth

uwm.edu

Maple Spanworm Moth Image

missoulabutterflyhouse.org

Maple Spanworm Moth

objects.liquidweb.services

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *