Large Turkey Louse vs Southern Flannel Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Large Turkey Louse | Southern Flannel Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Chelopistes meleagridis | Megalopyge opercularis |
| Order | Phthiraptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Philopteridae | Megalopygidae |
| Size | 3-5 mm | 25-36 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Farmland | Woodlands |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | North America, Europe | Southeastern United States, Central America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Large Turkey Louse
The largest louse found on domestic turkeys, feeding on feather material. It prefers the breast and thigh feathers of its host.
Did You Know?
Benjamin Franklin studied this louse while advocating for the turkey as America's national bird.
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.