Nevada Buck Moth
Common NameNevada Buck Moth
Scientific NameHemileuca nevadensis
FamilySaturniidae
SubfamilyHemileucinae
Wingspan (mm)65
Primary Colorswhite, black, orange
HabitatRiparian areas, wetlands, moist woodlands, shrublands
Geographic RangeWestern North America (British Columbia south through western US to northern Mexico)
Host Plantswillow, poplar, aspen
Flight PeriodAugust to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in masses on host plant twigs and overwinter. Larvae are spiny and gregarious when young, feeding on willows and poplars, and pupate in the soil.
Identification TipsKey features include the white wings with dark borders, a single black discal spot on the forewing, and the black and orange-banded abdomen. It is a day-flying moth, often found near its willow and poplar host plants.
Description
A striking day-flying moth with white wings featuring broad dark brown to black borders and a prominent black discal spot on each forewing. Its robust, hairy body is black with distinct orange or reddish-brown bands on the abdomen.
