Definite Tussock Moth
Common NameDefinite Tussock Moth
Scientific NameOrgyia definita
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyLymantriinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, white, black, purple
HabitatDeciduous and mixed forests, woodlands, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America (southern Canada to Florida, west to Texas)
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, willow, elm, apple, cherry
Flight PeriodMay to September (often two broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are distinctive hairy caterpillars with prominent tussocks of hair. Females are flightless and lay eggs on their cocoons.
Identification TipsMales have characteristic mottled forewings with a purplish iridescence and feathery antennae. Females are wingless and remain near their cocoons.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled dark brown and grey forewings, featuring irregular white and black markings and a subtle purplish sheen. Its antennae are feathery.
