Arctic Tiger Moth vs Southern Flannel Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Arctic Tiger Moth | Southern Flannel Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Grammia quenseli | Megalopyge opercularis |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Erebidae | Megalopygidae |
| Size | 34-44 mm wingspan | 25-36 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Tundra & Arctic | Woodlands |
| Diet | Herbivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | Scandinavia, Arctic Russia, Alaska, northern Canada, alpine Europe | Southeastern United States, Central America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Arctic Tiger Moth
A striking moth with black and cream striped forewings and orange-red hindwings with black spots. The hairy caterpillar is black with reddish bands. Adults are active during the brief Arctic and alpine summer.
Did You Know?
The caterpillar's dark coloration allows it to bask in the sun and raise its body temperature well above the ambient Arctic air temperature.
Southern Flannel Moth
A fluffy moth covered in cream to orange-brown fur-like scales. Its larva, called the puss caterpillar, is covered in soft-looking hair that conceals venomous spines.
Did You Know?
The puss caterpillar is considered the most venomous caterpillar in North America, with stings requiring medical attention.