Insect
Fortunate Wave
Idaea bonifataFortunate waves are delicate geometrid moths whose finely lined, pale cream-to-tan wings rest flat against tree bark or foliage during daylight hours. Adults become active at dusk and readily visit porch lights, outdoor lamps, and ultraviolet bait sheets across temperate woodland and brush habitats. Caterpillars develop on a diverse diet of dry plant tissue, fallen organic matter, and low foliage before pupating within loose silk cocoons tucked into leaf litter.
NocturnalCamouflagedMoth
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Not EvaluatedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNot Evaluated — not placed on the risk ladderRed List categories, explained →
Diet & preyFlower nectar, Tree sap, Plant matter
Predators
- Insectivorous bats
- Jumping spiders
- Passerine birds
ThreatsHabitat loss, outdoor light pollution, and broad-spectrum pesticide use
HabitatsDeciduous woodlands, chaparral, brushy clearings, and suburban gardens
Life spanSeveral weeks as adult; approximately 1 year total life cycle
Classification
- OrderLepidoptera
- FamilyGeometridae
- GenusIdaea
- SpeciesIdaea bonifata
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
- Night Observation: Set up a porch light or ultraviolet lamp against a white sheet to view them.
- Gentle Movement: Approach resting adults slowly, as quick shadows prompt sudden flight.
Close Relative (c) Laura Gaudette, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
Image unavailableClose Relative Same Family 
Same Family (c) Chris Stahl, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
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Found in Collections
Species set
Moonlight Marvels
Fortunate Wave is found in this collection. Identify it in Fauna to fill this slot and continue your progress.
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