Tussock Moths (Lymantriidae) are a large and diverse family of moths most common in Africa, South Asia, and South America. About 35 species occur in North America, mostly in the eastern US and Canada. These moths are medium-sized with brownish, grayish, or whitish wings. The caterpillars usually are hairy with 2 anterior and 2-3 posterior hair tufts, and some species have stinging hairs. Tussock moths often are forest pests because the caterpillars feed on tree leaves. The Eurasian Gypsy Moth, now called the Spongy Moth (Lymantria dispar), is an invasive species and a major pest species in eastern North America.

Spongy Moths are not known to occur in Nevada, but a population has become established in California and we see spongy moth traps all over the place. Keep an eye out for this species and report it to the state entomologist if you find one.

Spongy Moth larvae raised by my friend Ben and his parents in Boston. The larvae was feeding on a Sassafras tree (Sassafras albidum) when found, and Ben raised it to adulthood on Sassafras leaves. Note the five sets of blue spots and six sets of red spots on the dorsum.

For More Information: See the Butterflies and Moths website.