Oak Processionary Moth vs Imperial Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Oak Processionary Moth Imperial Moth
Scientific Name Thaumetopoea processionea Eacles imperialis
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Notodontidae Saturniidae
Size 25-35 mm wingspan 80-135 mm
Habitat Woodlands Woodlands
Diet Herbivores Omnivores
Regions Europe Eastern North America, Mexico, Central America, South America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Oak Processionary Moth

A moth whose caterpillars march nose-to-tail in long processions along tree branches.

💡

Did You Know?

Its caterpillar hairs cause severe allergic reactions and rashes in humans.

Imperial Moth

A large moth with bright yellow wings variably marked with purple-brown spots and patches. It is one of the most recognizable saturniids in the Americas.

💡

Did You Know?

The imperial moth has declined dramatically in the northeastern United States, likely due to parasitic flies introduced for gypsy moth control.