Orange-tipped Oakworm Moth
Common NameOrange-tipped Oakworm Moth
Scientific NameAnisota senatoria
FamilySaturniidae
SubfamilyCeratocampinae
Wingspan (mm)45
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, yellow, brown
HabitatDeciduous forests, oak woodlands, suburban areas with oaks
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to Florida and west to Kansas
Host Plantsoak
Flight PeriodJune to September
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in clusters on oak leaves. Larvae are black and spiny with two prominent 'horns' on the head, often feeding gregariously before pupating in the soil over winter.
Identification TipsKey features include its overall orange-yellow coloration, fuzzy body, and the prominent white discal spot on each forewing; the larvae are also distinctive with their black, spiny bodies and orange-tipped 'horns'.
Description
This moth has a fuzzy, bright orange-yellow body and antennae, with translucent, muted orange-ochre forewings featuring faint darker veins, scattered small dark spots, and a distinct white discal spot.
