Holly Looper – Thysanopyga intactata

Holly Looper – Thysanopyga intactata Common Name: Holly Looper Latin Name: Thysanopyga intactata Appearance: The adult Holly Looper moth has a wingspan of about 3 cm and a distinctive pattern of brown and white markings. The larvae are green with a darker green stripe down the back and can grow up to 3 cm in length. Egg: The eggs of the Holly Looper are small, oval, and white. Pupa: The pupa is brown and about 1 cm in length. Larva: The larvae of the Holly Looper are green in color with a darker green stripe down the back. They have three pairs of legs at the front of their bodies and five teams of prolegs towards the rear. Adults: The adult Holly Looper has a wingspan of about 3 cm and is brown and white. The males have feathery antennae. Host plant: The Holly Looper feeds on various plants, including holly, blueberry, and azalea. Territory: The Holly Looper is found throughout eastern North America. Damages caused by Holly Looper: The Holly Looper can cause damage to the leaves of its host plants by feeding on them. The plants can be defoliated in severe infestations, impacting their growth and health. Life history and Habits: The Holly Looper undergoes complete metamorphosis, with four life stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The larvae hatch from the eggs and feed on the leaves of their host plant. They spin silken threads to attach themselves to the leaves and each other. After several molts, the larvae pupate and eventually emerge as adult moths. The adult moths mate and lay eggs, starting the cycle again. The Holly Looper is active from June to September, with two generations per year. It is primarily nocturnal and attracted to light.