Side view of a Tussock Moth resting on the ground

Tussock Moths

Tussock moths in the genus Orgyia are small moths that are best-known because of their attractive larvae. Adults are usually quite hairy and generally have subdued colors in shades of brown, gray, or white. The antennae are comblike (bipectinate). Females frequently are larger than males, flightless, and may have the wings reduced or absent. As with the hairs on the caterpillars, the hair tufts on the end of the adult female’s abdomen may be skin irritating if touched.

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