Purple-crested Slug Moth
Common NamePurple-crested Slug Moth
Scientific NameAdoneta spinuloides
FamilyLimacodidae
Wingspan (mm)25
Primary Colorsbrown, golden-brown, white
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, cherry, hickory, willow
Flight PeriodMay to September
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are slug-like caterpillars, often green with a purple dorsal stripe and stinging spines. They pupate in a hard, oval cocoon.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive iridescent golden-brown patch on the forewing and the mottled brown coloration. The robust, hairy body is also characteristic.
Description
This moth features mottled brown forewings with a prominent, iridescent golden-brown patch bordered by a white line, and a robust, hairy body.
