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Southern Flannel Moth

Southern Flannel Moth

Megalopyge opercularis

A species of Megalopyge, Also known as Italian Asp, Opossum Bug, Tree Asp, Fire Caterpillar

The southern Flannel Moth (Megalopyge opercularis) is a fuzzy moth and caterpillar that looks as though it is wearing a piece of cloth. Don't let the larva fuzzy appearance fool you, as it does have spines on its body that it can dig into you if threatened. The spines cause radiating pain, similar to a broken bone.

Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Animals
Toxic to Animals
Does the Southern Flannel Moth cause allergies?
Allergenic
General Info About Southern Flannel Moth
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Attributes of Southern Flannel Moth
Colors
Brown
Black
White
Habitat
oak; elm; plum; garden plant (rose and ivy)
Adult Food Sources
Nectar from various flowering plants
Larva Food Source
Leaves of oak, citrus, and other broadleaf plants
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Southern Flannel Moth feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Southern Flannel Moth
It is distributed throughout the eastern United States between extreme southeastern Virginia and Florida, the southern United States, Mexico, and parts of Central America.
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Distribution Area of Southern Flannel Moth
United States, Mexico, parts of Central America
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Appearance of Southern Flannel Moth
The inch-long larva is generously coated 2.5 cm long, luxuriant hair-like setae, making it resemble a tiny Persian cat, the characteristic that presumably gave it the name "puss". It is variable in color, from downy grayish white to golden brown to dark charcoal gray. It often has a streak of bright orange running longitudinally. The adult moth is covered in long fur in colors ranging from dull orange to lemon yellow, with hairy legs and fuzzy black feet.
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How to Identify Southern Flannel Moth?

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Life Cycle of Southern Flannel Moth
Egg At this initial stage, the egg of the southern Flannel Moth is tiny, often oval or round. It may vary in color but is typically inconspicuous to avoid predation. The egg stage is highly dependent on environmental conditions for development.
Larva After hatching, the larva of southern Flannel Moth emerges. It is worm-like with distinct segmentation, lack of wings, and may exhibit bright warning colors or mimicry. This stage primarily focuses on feeding and growth, resulting in multiple molts before pupation.
Pupal The southern Flannel Moth enters a pupal stage wherein it undergoes a remarkable transformation, encased within a chrysalis. Its color and shape serve as camouflage. The insect is immobile and vulnerable, reorganizing internally for the adult phase.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult southern Flannel Moth's development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction.
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Adult Size of Southern Flannel Moth
2.5 - 3.5 cm
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Interesting Facts About Southern Flannel Moth
Southern Flannel Moth can shed skin multiple times, each phase showcasing drastically different colors and patterns, an adaptation for survival.
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Scientific Classification of Southern Flannel Moth
Tips for Finding Southern Flannel Moth
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Youth Habitat of Southern Flannel Moth
Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas
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Adult Habitat of Southern Flannel Moth
Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas
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How Can You Attract Southern Flannel Moth
Attractants for finding southern Flannel Moth could include leaves from host plants that the caterpillars feed upon, such as oak, elm, and willow.
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Habitat Preferences of Southern Flannel Moth Through Different Life Stages
Southern Flannel Moth larvae are typically found on host plants in wooded areas, feeding on the leaves. These caterpillars may be encountered on shrubs or trees like oaks and citrus. The pupal stage often occurs within a cocoon in the leaf litter or just beneath the soil surface, in close proximity to the larval feeding sites. Adult southern Flannel Moth moths are generally found near these breeding areas and may be drawn to light sources at night. If seeking the various stages of southern Flannel Moth, one would examine the host plants for caterpillars, sift through leaf litter for cocoons, and employ light traps or visit illuminated areas after dark to observe adults.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Southern Flannel Moth
The best time to locate adult southern Flannel Moth would likely be at dusk or nighttime when they are most active, while the larvae can be searched for during the daylight hours when they are feeding.
Are Southern Flannel Moth harmful?
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The southern Flannel Moth has special defensive behaviors that can trigger an allergic reaction. If there are serious reactions, seek IMMEDIATE medical attention.

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Are Southern Flannel Moth harmful to humans?

While adult southern Flannel Moths are harmless, the caterpillars have venomous spines all along their body that sting upon impact. These spines become more toxic as the caterpillar grows. The stings result in pain and blood-colored spots. Other symptoms include headache, nausea, fever, vomiting, low blood pressure, swollen lymph nodes, muscle spasms convulsions, and seizures. Seek medical attention immediately if any severe symptoms occur. An ice pack and antihistamines can help with the minor symptoms of pain, swelling, and itching.
Pesticides are the best way to control southern Flannel Moth caterpillars. Caution is crucial when near these caterpillars’ habitats, which include oaks and elms.
Harmful Effects of Southern Flannel Moth
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Toxic to Humans
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Toxic to Humans

Southern Flannel Moth's larvae possess urticating hairs that, when touched, can release neurotoxins and cytotoxins, leading to symptoms ranging from mild irritation to severe pain and discomfort. These hairs can break off and embed in skin, causing stinging sensations, rashes, or swelling. In more severe cases, symptoms may progress to headaches, nausea, and respiratory distress. Long-term effects are rare but can include scarring from intense reactions.

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Toxic to Animals

Southern Flannel Moth is known for its potent venom, which can cause severe reactions in various animals through its bite. It typically affects animals with a functioning nervous system, leading to symptoms such as pain, swelling, paralysis, and potentially death if left untreated, especially in humans and smaller mammals. Birds and insects may also suffer from these effects, though the severity can differ widely. The adult stage of southern Flannel Moth is particularly dangerous due to its capability to inject venom using fangs.

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Does the Southern Flannel Moth cause allergies?

Contact with southern Flannel Moth during its larval stage can cause severe allergic reactions in most people due to its urticating hairs. These hairs contain allergens that can trigger symptoms such as intense pain, swelling, and rashes upon contact. Sensitivity varies among individuals, with some experiencing heightened reactions. Caution is advised when near southern Flannel Moth, especially during its caterpillar phase.

More Effects of Southern Flannel Moth

Common Questions People Also Ask
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