White-necked Flannel Moth
Common NameWhite-necked Flannel Moth
Scientific NameMegalopyge albicollis
FamilyMegalopygidae
SubfamilyMegalopyginae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsdark brown, white, yellow
HabitatWoodlands, forests, suburban areas
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States (e.g., Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas, North Carolina, South Carolina)
Host Plantsoak, elm, maple, citrus, rose, various broadleaf trees and shrubs
Flight PeriodApril to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larva, known as the 'puss caterpillar,' is highly venomous, covered in dense, urticating hairs that can cause painful stings. Pupation occurs in a tough, silken cocoon.
Identification TipsLook for the dark brown forewings with striking white/cream patterns, especially the broad white band near the wing margin. The white dorsal stripe on the thorax and yellow markings on the head are also key features.
Description
A medium-sized, furry moth with dark brown forewings featuring prominent white or cream wavy lines and a broad band along the outer margin. The head and thorax are dark with a distinctive white dorsal stripe and yellow markings on the head.
