Grote's Tussock Moth
Common NameGrote's Tussock Moth
Scientific NameDasychira grotei
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyLymantriinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgray, white, brown, orange
HabitatDeciduous and mixed forests, woodlands
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to the Gulf Coast states
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, willow, elm
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy caterpillars, often with dense tufts (tussocks) of hair, feeding on deciduous tree leaves. They pupate in cocoons incorporating larval hairs.
Identification TipsLook for mottled gray and white forewings with dark markings, a very fuzzy body, and a bright orange abdomen that often extends beyond the wings at rest. Males have feathery antennae.
Description
A medium-sized, fuzzy moth with mottled gray and white forewings, dark wavy lines, and a prominent orange abdomen.
