Common Tan Wave

Found in a variety of environments including gardens, forests, and fields; common across North and South America.

Adults feed on nectar from various flowers; larvae (caterpillars) are generalists, feeding on various plants including goldenrod, asters, and oaks.

Active primarily at night and strongly attracted to artificial lights. They rest with their wings spread flat against surfaces to camouflage. Like other geometrid moths, the larvae are known as 'inchworms'.

No risk to humans. Benefits the ecosystem as a pollinator in its adult stage and as a food source for birds, bats, and predatory insects.