Southern Flannel Moth vs Question Mark Butterfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Southern Flannel Moth | Question Mark Butterfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Megalopyge opercularis | Polygonia interrogationis |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Megalopygidae | Nymphalidae |
| Size | 25-36 mm wingspan | 45-76 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Woodlands |
| Diet | Omnivores | Sap Feeders |
| 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.
Question Mark Butterfly
Orange butterfly with dark spots and irregular wing margins. A silvery question-mark shape on the underside of the hindwing gives it its name.
Did You Know?
It rarely visits flowers, preferring to feed on fermenting fruit, sap, and animal dung.