Norape virgo
Common NameNorape virgo
Scientific NameNorape virgo
FamilyMegalopygidae
SubfamilyMegalopyginae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorswhite
HabitatWoodlands, forests, and areas with host plants
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States (e.g., Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas) and parts of Central and South America
Host Plantsoak, cherry, various broadleaf trees and shrubs
Flight PeriodLate spring to fall (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae (caterpillars) are typically very hairy and can cause a painful sting if touched due to urticating hairs. They pupate in a dense cocoon.
Identification TipsIts pure white, extremely fluffy appearance, especially the prominent tuft of hair on its head and thorax, makes it quite distinctive among moths in its range.
Description
A small, entirely white moth characterized by extremely dense, long, fluffy white hair covering its body and wings, giving it a very soft, woolly appearance, with a distinctive 'hairdo' on its head.
