Manto Tussock Moth
Common NameManto Tussock Moth
Scientific NameOrgyia sp.
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyLymantriinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, cream, dark brown
HabitatWoodlands, forests, gardens, urban areas
Geographic RangeWidespread in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere (general for Orgyia species)
Host Plantsoak, willow, birch, fruit trees, various deciduous and coniferous trees
Flight PeriodJune to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically very hairy, often with distinctive 'tussocks' or brushes of hair, and can be polyphagous. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon, often incorporating larval hairs. Females of some Orgyia species are flightless.
Identification TipsLook for the characteristic cryptic wing pattern of wavy brown and cream bands, the extremely hairy body, and often feathery antennae in males. The robust, furry appearance is typical of Tussock Moths.
Description
A medium-sized moth with a very hairy, robust body and legs. Its forewings display a cryptic pattern of wavy, irregular bands in shades of brown, dark brown, and creamy white, providing excellent camouflage.
