Pink-striped Oakworm Moth
Common NamePink-striped Oakworm Moth
Scientific NameAnisota virginiensis
FamilySaturniidae
SubfamilyCeratocampinae
Wingspan (mm)50
Primary Colorsorange, pink, brown, white
HabitatDeciduous forests, oak woodlands, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia west to Manitoba and south to Florida and Texas
Host Plantsoak, birch, hazel, chestnut
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in clusters on host plant leaves. Larvae are green with black stripes and spines, feeding gregariously before pupating in underground chambers, with adults emerging later in the season or the following year.
Identification TipsKey features include the fuzzy orange body, brownish-orange forewings with pinkish-purple marginal stripes, and a single, clear white discal spot on each forewing. The hindwings are predominantly pinkish-purple.
Description
This moth features a fuzzy orange body and antennae. Its forewings are brownish-orange with distinct pinkish-purple stripes along the costal and outer margins, each bearing a single prominent white discal spot.
