Inchworm (Geometer Moth Larva)

Natural Habitat

Found worldwide in varied environments including forests, backyards, gardens, and agricultural fields; they typically reside on the leaves and branches of host trees and shrubs.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivorous; feeds on the leaves, flowers, and sometimes fruits of a wide variety of deciduous trees, shrubs, and plants like apple, oak, elm, and maple.

Behavior Patterns

Known for their distinctive looping locomotion where they draw their hind legs forward to meet their front legs, creating a loop shape before extending the front of the body forward again. Many species are excellent mimics, resembling twigs or leaf stems to avoid predation.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans (no sting or bite). They are a significant food source for birds and other predators. However, in large numbers (like the Cankerworm), they can be significant agricultural or forestry pests by defoliating trees.

Identified on: 2/8/2026