Western Tent Caterpillar Moth
Common NameWestern Tent Caterpillar Moth
Scientific NameMalacosoma californicum
FamilyLasiocampidae
SubfamilyNone
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsreddish-brown, tan
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, riparian areas, orchards, suburban gardens
Geographic RangeWestern North America (British Columbia south to California, east to the Rocky Mountains)
Host Plantsoak, willow, aspen, apple, cherry, plum, alder, birch, madrone, ceanothus
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are social and construct silken 'tents' in host trees for shelter. They feed on leaves, then disperse to pupate in cocoons, with adults emerging for a short reproductive period.
Identification TipsKey features include the two prominent, pale, oblique stripes on the reddish-brown forewings, a very fuzzy body, and feathery (pectinate) antennae, especially noticeable in males.
Description
A medium-sized, robust moth with a fuzzy, reddish-brown body and wings. Its forewings are marked with two distinct, pale tan or yellowish oblique stripes.
