The Maple Spanworm Moth is a large, pale yellow geometrid with fine brown speckling that flies in autumn, when its color perfectly matches fall leaves. It often rests on the ground among fallen leaves where it is virtually invisible. The caterpillar is a stick-like inchworm that feeds on maple and other hardwoods.
Best time to see a Maple Spanworm Moth
The best time to see a Maple Spanworm Moth is August–September, when about 61% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 3,489 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Maple Spanworm Moth? What bug is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Maple Spanworm Moth sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spot a Maple Spanworm Moth? Identify it instantly.
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal for an instant ID, its rarity, and a live map of where it is being seen near you.
Get HuckGet an alert when a Maple Spanworm Moth is spotted
Pick a park, state, or city and we’ll email you when one turns up there. One check a day, only when there’s something new.
Free. Unsubscribe from any email. See our Privacy Policy.
Love insects & arthropods? Get Huck field notes
Spotting tips, new species, and the best of what people are finding in the wild - straight to your inbox.