Greater Grapevine Looper

Common Name: Greater grapevine looper

Scientific Name: Eulithis gracilineata

Season: Two generations, with caterpillars by June and adults in July.

Food: Grape and Virginia creeper.

Ecology: Many caterpillars feed at night to avoid being detected by birds, but they need a clever way to avoid being noticed while they rest during the day. The greater grapevine looper mimics the appearance of a twig, and will hold itself straight and still for extended periods of time to avoid detection. Eggs that are laid in the fall or late summer will overwinter.

Doug Tallamy Photo