Spongy Moth
Common NameSpongy Moth
Scientific NameLymantria dispar
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyLymantriinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, black
HabitatDeciduous and mixed forests, woodlands, urban and suburban areas
Geographic RangeNative to Europe, Asia, and North Africa; invasive in North America
Host Plantsoak, birch, aspen, willow, maple, apple, linden
Flight PeriodJuly to August
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesOverwinters as an egg mass covered in tan hairs. Larvae emerge in spring, are hairy with distinctive red and blue spots, and feed on tree leaves. They pupate in summer, and adults emerge a few weeks later to mate and lay eggs.
Identification TipsMales have strongly feathered antennae and mottled brown wings with dark wavy lines. Females are larger, whitish, and have less pectinate antennae, often being flightless. The hairy egg masses are also a key identifier.
Description
This is a male Spongy Moth, characterized by its hairy, yellowish-brown body and strongly pectinate (feathered) antennae. Its forewings are mottled brown and tan with wavy dark bands, providing excellent camouflage.
