Riley's Lappet Moth
Common NameRiley's Lappet Moth
Scientific NameHeteropacha rileyana
FamilyLasiocampidae
SubfamilyLasiocampinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsgrey, brown
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Ontario and Quebec south to Florida and west to Texas and Kansas
Host Plantsoak
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy and feed primarily on oak leaves. They typically overwinter as pupae within cocoons.
Identification TipsKey identification features include its overall very hairy, mottled grey-brown appearance, bipectinate (comb-like) antennae, and its association with oak trees.
Description
A robust, medium-sized moth characterized by its very hairy body and wings, displaying a mottled grey and brown cryptic pattern.
