Patched Tuft Moth
Common NamePatched Tuft Moth
Scientific NameArtace cribraria
FamilyLasiocampidae
SubfamilyLasiocampinae
Wingspan (mm)32.5
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorswhite, grey, black
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America (southern Canada to Florida, west to Texas)
Host Plantsoak, willow, birch, cherry
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy caterpillars that feed on various broadleaf trees and shrubs. They pupate in a cocoon, and adults are nocturnal.
Identification TipsLook for its distinctive mottled white and black/dark brown pattern, fuzzy body, and the somewhat irregular, scalloped forewing margins. Its cryptic coloration helps it blend in with bark or lichen.
Description
A medium-sized, stocky moth with a fuzzy body and wings, predominantly white to grayish-white, heavily speckled and patched with black or dark brown, providing excellent camouflage.
