Small Tolype Moth
Common NameSmall Tolype Moth
Scientific NameTolype notialis
FamilyLasiocampidae
SubfamilyGastropachinae
Wingspan (mm)32.5
Primary Colorswhite, black, grey
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, suburban areas, parks
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada south to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, willow, cherry
Flight PeriodAugust to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy and feed on various deciduous trees. They pupate in a cocoon, and adults emerge in late summer to fall. The species overwinters in the egg stage.
Identification TipsKey features include its extremely fluffy white body, a prominent dark central thoracic patch, and the distinctive wavy, banded pattern of its forewings. Males have strongly bipectinate (feathery) antennae.
Description
This is a small, very fluffy moth with a pure white, densely hairy body and head, often featuring a dark brown patch on the thorax. Its forewings are patterned with alternating wavy bands of white and dark grey/black, while the hindwings are mostly pale grey.
