The Peppered Moth is the most famous example of industrial melanism in nature — during the industrial revolution its black 'carbonaria' form surged in frequency as soot darkened tree bark, only to decline as air quality improved and lichens returned. The original pale, speckled form is cryptic against lichen-covered bark. It is a large, impressive geometrid that rests by day perfectly camouflaged on bark.
Best time to see a Peppered Moth
The best time to see a Peppered Moth is July–August, when about 61% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 4,215 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Peppered Moth? What bug is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Peppered Moth sightings near you
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