Southern Flannel Moth vs Mountain Prosimulium
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Southern Flannel Moth | Mountain Prosimulium |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Megalopyge opercularis | Prosimulium mixtum |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Diptera |
| Family | Megalopygidae | Simuliidae |
| Size | 25-36 mm wingspan | 2-4 mm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Mountains |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | Southeastern United States, Central America | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
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.
Mountain Prosimulium
An early-season black fly of cold mountain streams in North America. Larvae develop in small headwater streams during late winter and early spring.
Did You Know?
Adults emerge so early in spring that they are often the first biting flies encountered by hikers each year.