Wavy Flannel Moth
Common NameWavy Flannel Moth
Scientific NameMegalopyge undulata
FamilyMegalopygidae
SubfamilyMegalopyginae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsorange, brown, grey
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, suburban areas
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States
Host Plantsoak, elm, hackberry, willow, citrus
Flight PeriodApril to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae, known as 'puss caterpillars', are covered in venomous setae that can cause painful stings. They are polyphagous and pupate in a tough cocoon.
Identification TipsKey features include the extremely furry, orange-brown body and legs, and the mottled greyish-brown forewings with subtle wavy patterns. Males have bipectinate antennae.
Description
A medium-sized, very furry moth with a densely hairy orange-brown body and legs. Its forewings are mottled greyish-brown with indistinct darker wavy lines, while the hindwings are plainer grey.
