No common name
Common NameNo common name
Scientific NamePodalia orsilochus
FamilyMegalopygidae
SubfamilyMegalopyginae
Wingspan (mm)55
Primary Colorscream, dark brown, black
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests
Geographic RangeCentral and South America (e.g., Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela, Costa Rica)
Host Plantsvarious broadleaf trees and shrubs, Eucalyptus, Coffea, Citrus, Mangifera, Persea
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are known as 'puss caterpillars' or 'flannel moth caterpillars,' covered in dense, often urticating hairs that can cause painful stings. They are polyphagous, feeding on various woody plants, and pupate in a tough cocoon.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its robust, hairy body and the unique, intricate reticulated wing pattern of dark veins on a pale background. The overall coloration and specific arrangement of the pale cells are key features for identification.
Description
A robust, hairy moth with forewings featuring a striking reticulated pattern of dark brown to black veins and cross-bands on a creamy white or pale yellow background. The head and thorax are also hairy with striped patterns, and the abdomen is banded.
