Zhejiang Tussock Moth
Common NameZhejiang Tussock Moth
Scientific NameLymantria zhejiangensis
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyLymantriinae
Wingspan (mm)45
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, dark brown, tan
HabitatForests, woodlands, areas with host trees
Geographic RangeZhejiang province, China, and surrounding East Asian regions
Host Plantsoak, birch, willow, poplar, various broadleaf trees
Flight PeriodSummer (e.g., June to August)
Flight Stylefluttering
Lifecycle NotesEggs are typically laid in masses. Larvae are hairy caterpillars, often with distinctive tufts, which feed on the foliage of host trees. Pupation occurs in a cocoon.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive mottled brown forewing pattern with wavy dark lines and lighter patches. The robust, very hairy body and prominent comb-like antennae (in males) are also key features.
Description
A medium-sized, robust moth with mottled dark brown and tan forewings featuring wavy transverse lines. Its body and legs are notably hairy, and males possess prominent pectinate antennae.
