Streaked Tussock Moth
Common NameStreaked Tussock Moth
Scientific NameOrgyia recens
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyLymantriinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, reddish-brown
HabitatOpen woodlands, heathlands, moorlands, bogs, fens
Geographic RangeNorth America (Alaska, Canada, northern US)
Host Plantswillow, birch, alder, oak, aspen, blueberry
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesFemales are flightless and remain near their cocoons after emergence, attracting males with pheromones. Larvae are distinctive hairy caterpillars with prominent tussocks of hair, feeding on various deciduous trees and shrubs before pupating in cocoons.
Identification TipsMales are identified by their strongly bipectinate (feathery) antennae and the cryptically patterned forewings with wavy dark lines. Females are wingless and rarely seen. The specific wing pattern helps distinguish it from other *Orgyia* species.
Description
A medium-sized moth with a stout, hairy body and prominent feathery antennae in males. Its forewings display a complex, mottled pattern of browns, greys, and reddish-browns with distinct wavy dark lines, providing excellent camouflage.
