Larch Tolype Moth
Common NameLarch Tolype Moth
Scientific NameTolype laricis
FamilyLasiocampidae
SubfamilyLasiocampinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsdark grey, white, black
HabitatConiferous forests, especially those with Larch trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Newfoundland west to Manitoba and south to Florida and Texas
Host PlantsLarix spp. (Larch), Abies balsamea (Balsam Fir), Picea spp. (Spruce), Pinus spp. (Pine), Tsuga spp. (Hemlock)
Flight PeriodAugust to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesOverwinters as eggs. Larvae are hairy, dark with orange spots, and feed on conifer needles. Pupation occurs in a cocoon.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its very hairy, white body, dark forewings with distinct white wavy lines, and large, feathery antennae, especially in males. The overall robust and fluffy appearance is characteristic.
Description
A robust, fluffy moth with a white head and thorax, dark grey to black forewings marked with prominent white, wavy lines, and large, feathery antennae.
