American Lappet Moth
Common NameAmerican Lappet Moth
Scientific NamePhyllodesma americana
FamilyLasiocampidae
SubfamilyLasiocampinae
Wingspan (mm)50
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, white
HabitatDeciduous and mixed forests, woodlands, shrubby areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Canada south to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, cherry, willow, poplar, apple, blueberry
Flight PeriodApril to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy, often grey or brown, and feed on a wide variety of deciduous trees and shrubs. They pupate in a cocoon, typically attached to a host plant or leaf litter.
Identification TipsKey features include its cryptic coloration mimicking dead leaves, the distinctive tent-like resting posture, and the wavy lines on its forewings. The hairy body and 'lappet' fringes on the underside of the wings are also characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled reddish-brown and grayish-white wings, often resembling dead leaves or bark. Its wings feature wavy lines and are held in a distinctive tent-like fashion when at rest.
