Woolly Gray Moth
Common NameWoolly Gray Moth
Scientific NameLophocampa tessellaris
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgray, white, black
HabitatDeciduous and mixed forests, woodlands, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsmaple, oak, birch, elm, willow, ash, hickory
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are distinctive, covered in dense tufts of yellow, orange, or black hair, with longer black tufts at the front and back. They pupate in a cocoon incorporating their hairs.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive mottled gray and white wing pattern, often with a somewhat checkered appearance, and the robust, woolly body. The feathery antennae are also characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized moth with a robust, hairy body and wings mottled with shades of gray, white, and black, creating a tessellated or checkered appearance.
