Podalia walkeri
Common NamePodalia walkeri
Scientific NamePodalia walkeri
FamilyMegalopygidae
SubfamilyMegalopyginae
Wingspan (mm)45
Primary Colorsbrown, cream, tan
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, woodlands, and disturbed areas
Geographic RangeSouth America (Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina)
Host PlantsEucalyptus, Acacia, Mimosa, Citrus
Flight PeriodMultiple broods, active throughout warmer months
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae, known as 'puss caterpillars,' are covered in dense, often venomous, urticating hairs. They pupate in a dense cocoon, often incorporating larval hairs.
Identification TipsKey features include the extremely fuzzy body, the distinctive brown and white reticulated pattern on the forewings, and the prominent bipectinate (feathery) antennae, especially in males.
Description
A stout-bodied, very fuzzy moth with a tan to light brown head and thorax. Its forewings are a rich brown, intricately patterned with white or cream reticulations, while the hindwings are paler.
