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4647 – Megalopyge opercularis

Southern Flannel Moth

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Species Pages

Megalopyge opercularis,  Southern Flannel Moth
Megalopyge opercularis,  Southern Flannel Moth
Megalopyge opercularis,  Southern Flannel Moth
Megalopyge opercularis,  Southern Flannel Moth larva

Blisters from a puss moth caterpillar sting 

General Species Information

Host Plant: Polyphagous - Oaks, palms and many other plants

Historical Range: SE USA

Our Experience with this Species: This is one of the most common and regular species in the Keys. They can be found throughout the year and have showed up at every location we have surveyed

Notes: The larva of this specis is often called a "puss-moth caterpillar". Hidden in the hairs of this hairy slug-like larva are spines that pack a very painful sting if touched. This larva should not be handled at all

Distribution Chart

K. Largo   Marath. Ba. Hond     B.P.K.   No Name  Sck. Isd.    K. West
Colored box indicates adult of this species has been confirmed on that island

Adult Flight Chart

  Jan.       Feb.     Mar.     Apr.    May     Jun.      Jul.       Aug.     Sep.     Oct.     Nov.     Dec.
Colored box indicates adult of this species has been confirmed in that month

References

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