The Banded Tussock Moth is a beautiful, pale yellow moth with a network of dark brown lines forming a tessellated or stained-glass window pattern on its wings. Its caterpillar bears long, flowing tufts of white and black hair, giving it an almost fairy-like appearance. The moths gather at lights in summer and are widespread in eastern forests.
Best time to see a Banded Tussock Moth
The best time to see a Banded Tussock Moth is August–September, when about 67% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 41,793 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Banded Tussock Moth? What bug is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Banded Tussock Moth sightings near you
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