Species Insects & ArthropodsBanded Tussock Moth

Banded Tussock Moth

Halysidota tessellaris

CommonInsect & Arthropod
Illustration of Banded Tussock Moth (Halysidota tessellaris)

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.

Habitat
Deciduous forests, clearings, and suburban yards
Diet
Larvae: birch, hickory, walnut, oaks, and many other trees. Adults: do not feed
How common
Common

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.

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