White-spotted Flannel Moth
Common NameWhite-spotted Flannel Moth
Scientific NameMegalopyge basalis
FamilyMegalopygidae
SubfamilyMegalopyginae
Wingspan (mm)32.5
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsdark brown, orange, white
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, woodlands, and disturbed areas
Geographic RangeCentral America (e.g., Costa Rica, Panama) and parts of South America (e.g., Colombia, Ecuador, Peru)
Host Plantsvarious broadleaf trees and shrubs, Coffea, Citrus, Mangifera, Persea
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; warmer months in subtropical areas
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae, known as puss caterpillars, are covered in dense, venomous hairs that can cause painful stings. They pupate in a dense, felt-like cocoon.
Identification TipsLook for the extremely hairy, robust body, the dark brown forewings with a single prominent white spot at the base, and the contrasting bright orange hindwings and abdomen.
Description
This moth has a very stout, hairy body, dark brown forewings with a distinct white spot near the base, and bright orange hindwings and abdomen. Its overall appearance is very fluffy.
