Sonoran Tent Caterpillar
Common NameSonoran Tent Caterpillar
Scientific NameMalacosoma tigris
FamilyLasiocampidae
SubfamilyLasiocampinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorstan, light brown, reddish-brown
HabitatArid and semi-arid regions, deserts, chaparral, woodlands
Geographic RangeSouthwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, California, Nevada, Utah, Texas) and northern Mexico
Host Plantsmesquite, acacia, palo verde, desert willow, oak
Flight PeriodJuly to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae, known as tent caterpillars, are gregarious and construct silken 'tents' on host plants for shelter. They are hairy and feed communally before pupating in cocoons.
Identification TipsLook for the overall fuzzy, light brown appearance with two distinct, wavy reddish-brown lines on the forewings. The large, feathery antennae are also a key feature, especially in males.
Description
A medium-sized, fuzzy moth with a stout body and tan to light brown wings, marked by two faint, wavy reddish-brown lines on the forewings.
