About 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.
How to Identify Southern Flannel Moth
Southern Flannel Moth (Megalopyge opercularis) belongs to the order Lepidoptera, family Megalopygidae. Adults typically measure 25-36 mm wingspan.
Southern Flannel Moth Habitat
Southern Flannel Moth is found in woodlands habitats, particularly across Southeastern United States, Central America. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Southern Flannel Moth Diet and Feeding
Southern Flannel Moth has an omnivorous diet, feeding on both plant and animal matter. This dietary flexibility allows it to exploit a wide range of food sources in its environment.
Where Is Southern Flannel Moth Found?
Southern Flannel Moth can be found in Southeastern United States, Central America, where it inhabits woodlands environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Southern Flannel Moth can be found
Is Southern Flannel Moth Dangerous?
Southern Flannel Moth is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.
Southern Flannel Moth Role in Nature
Southern Flannel Moth plays a role in its ecosystem as part of the food web, serving as both consumer and prey. Insects like Southern Flannel Moth are a vital food source for birds, bats, and other wildlife, and contribute to the overall health and balance of their environment.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Southern Flannel Moth
What does Southern Flannel Moth look like?
The Southern Flannel Moth typically measures 25-36 mm wingspan.
Where is Southern Flannel Moth found?
The Southern Flannel Moth is found in Southeastern United States, Central America and typically inhabits woodlands environments.
What does Southern Flannel Moth eat?
The Southern Flannel Moth has an omnivorous diet, feeding on both plant and animal matter.
Is Southern Flannel Moth dangerous to humans?
The Southern Flannel Moth is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Southern Flannel Moth?
The puss caterpillar is considered the most venomous caterpillar in North America, with stings requiring medical attention.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Southern Flannel Moth (Megalopyge opercularis). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/southern-flannel-moth
MLA:
"Southern Flannel Moth." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/southern-flannel-moth.