Milkweed Tussock Moth
Common NameMilkweed Tussock Moth
Scientific NameEuchaetes egle
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorsgray, yellow
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, gardens, and areas with milkweed
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsmilkweed, dogbane, sunflower, plantain
Flight PeriodJune to September (one or two broods depending on latitude)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are distinctive, hairy caterpillars, often black and orange/yellow, that feed gregariously on milkweed. They pupate in a cocoon spun from their hairs.
Identification TipsAdults are relatively plain gray-brown with a prominent yellow abdomen. The larvae are much more easily identified by their dense tufts of black, white, and orange/yellow hairs.
Description
This moth has fuzzy, grayish-brown forewings and a matching fuzzy gray thorax, with contrasting yellowish hindwings and a yellow abdomen.
