Variable Tussock Moth
Common NameVariable Tussock Moth
Scientific NameDasychira vagans
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyLymantriinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsbrown, black, grey
HabitatForests, woodlands, suburban areas, parks
Geographic RangeNorth America (widespread across Canada and the northern United States)
Host Plantsoak, willow, birch, maple, apple, rose, fir, spruce, pine
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are distinctive hairy caterpillars with tufts of hair, known for defoliating a wide range of host plants. Females are flightless and typically lay eggs on their cocoons.
Identification TipsMales have characteristic feathery antennae and a variable but generally mottled pattern of dark patches on brown forewings. Females are wingless and remain near their cocoons.
Description
A medium-sized, very hairy moth with mottled brown and black forewings, a robust furry body, and prominent feathery antennae.
