Spun Glass Slug Moth
Common NameSpun Glass Slug Moth
Scientific NameIsochaetes beutenmuelleri
FamilyLimacodidae
SubfamilyLimacodinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, white
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, forests, and areas with host trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada south to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsoak, hickory, maple, birch, cherry, willow
Flight PeriodJune to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe caterpillar is slug-like, green with yellow stripes and often covered in stinging hairs. It pupates in a tough, oval cocoon typically attached to a leaf or twig.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive mottled brown and white 'spun glass' pattern on the forewings and the furry head and thorax. The slug-like caterpillar is also a key identifier.
Description
A small, stout-bodied moth with forewings mottled in shades of brown and white, creating a frosted or 'spun glass' appearance. Its head and thorax are notably furry.
