Butterflies and Moths of North America

collecting and sharing data about Lepidoptera

Southern Flannel Moth
Megalopyge opercularis (J. E. Smith, 1797)


Family: Megalopygidae
Subfamily:
Identification: Wings and body cream; thorax and FW base orangish. Some blackish and white along basal 2/3 of FW costa, but no sharp wing pattern.
Wing Span: 2.4-3.6 cm
Life History: Larvae resemble small furry cats. They have stinging hairs hidden among tufts of dense, soft hairs. They feed externally on various trees and shrubs.
Flight: All months
Caterpillar Hosts: Almond, apple, hackberry, oaks, orange, pecan, persimmon, roses, and other trees and shrubs
Adult Food:
Habitat: Deciduous forests and adjacent areas
Range: Maryland, to Florida, west to Missouri and Texas. Strays to New York and Pennsylvania.
Conservation:
NCGR: G5
Management Needs: none
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