This inchworm is less than one inch long and has a highly variable coloration, but a wave-like pattern along its abdomen. The identification of this inchworm was verified by the volunteer experts at BugGuide. The adult (shown in photo D) is a small moth with a wingspan of less than one inch. It is tan with many pale cream-colored lines and spots.
The abundance of this species in our two nature centers is not yet known. The caterpillar feeds on a variety of host plants – including bedstraw, bittersweet, goldenrod, oak, willow and other plants. It can have two or more generations a year and overwinters as a pupa.
Disclaimer: The content of NatureSearch is provided by dedicated volunteer Naturalists of Fontenelle Forest who strive to provide the most accurate information available. Contributors of the images retain their copyrights. The point of contact for this page is: Roland Barth.