Spiny Oak-slug Moth
Common NameSpiny Oak-slug Moth
Scientific NameEuclea delphinii
FamilyLimacodidae
SubfamilyLimacodinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, orange, green
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to Florida and west to Texas and Kansas
Host Plantsoak, cherry, maple, birch, willow, hickory
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are distinctive 'slug caterpillars' with flattened bodies and rows of stinging spines, feeding on the leaves of various deciduous trees. They pupate in a tough, oval cocoon.
Identification TipsKey features include the mottled brown/tan forewings with a prominent orange-brown patch and a pale green patch, often accompanied by a dark spot, and its stout, hairy body. The unique slug-like larvae are also a strong identifier.
Description
This moth has a stout, hairy body and forewings that are mottled brown and tan, featuring a prominent orange-brown patch and a pale green patch near the costa, often with a dark spot.
