Yellow-based Tussock Moth
Common NameYellow-based Tussock Moth
Scientific NameDasychira basiflava
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyLymantriinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, tan
HabitatDeciduous and mixed forests, woodlands
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia south to Florida and west to Texas and Manitoba
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, willow, apple, cherry
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy caterpillars, often with prominent hair tufts, feeding on a variety of deciduous tree leaves. They pupate in a cocoon incorporating larval hairs.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its cryptic forewing pattern of browns and greys with wavy lines. The hindwings, though not visible in this image, are typically pale yellow, giving the moth its common name.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled brown and grey forewings featuring irregular dark wavy lines and bands, and a very hairy body and legs.
