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Douglas-Fir Tussock Moth

Douglas-Fir Tussock Moth

Orgyia pseudotsugata

A species of Orgyia

Adult males are grayish brown moths with mottled light and dark markings. The males' wingspread is 25–34 mm (0.98–1.34 in). When the wings are spread open, the brown hindwings can be seen. Individuals in the northern part of its range are darker and southern populations are lighter. Antennae are plumose (feathery). Females are flightless with only rudimentary wings. Larvae (caterpillars) are 20–26 mm (0.79–1.02 in) and colorful with red spots, white spines, conspicuous red-tipped white tufts or "tussocks", and dense bunches of long, black hairs projecting to the front and behind.

General Info About Douglas-Fir Tussock Moth
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Attributes of Douglas-Fir Tussock Moth
Habitat
coniferous forests; drier forest; pine forest
Larva Food Source
Douglas-fir needles, grand fir needles, other coniferous needles, oak leaves, willow leaves
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
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Species Status of Douglas-Fir Tussock Moth
Common and widespread
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Distribution Area of Douglas-Fir Tussock Moth
Western North America
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Life Cycle of Douglas-Fir Tussock Moth
Egg The egg phase for the douglas-Fir Tussock Moth initiates the life cycle. These eggs are often laid in clusters and are characterized by their small, spherical shape. The color may vary depending on the species but are typically inconspicuous.
Larva After hatching, the caterpillar represents the larval stage of douglas-Fir Tussock Moth. It is marked by rapid growth, molting several times as it increases in size. The caterpillar primarily consumes food, sporting a segmented body with distinct color patterns for defense or camouflage.
Pupal As it enters the pupal stage, douglas-Fir Tussock Moth becomes immobile, developing inside a protective cocoon. The organism undergoes significant transformation, reorganizing internally. The color and size of the pupa vary, but it generally blends with the environment.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult douglas-Fir Tussock 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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Interesting Facts About Douglas-Fir Tussock Moth
Douglas-Fir Tussock Moth caterpillars possess unique toxic hairs that can cause severe irritation upon contact with human skin.
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Scientific Classification of Douglas-Fir Tussock Moth
Tips for Finding Douglas-Fir Tussock Moth
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Youth Habitat of Douglas-Fir Tussock Moth
Forests and Woodlands
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Adult Habitat of Douglas-Fir Tussock Moth
Forests and Woodlands
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How Can You Attract Douglas-Fir Tussock Moth
Pheromone traps are commonly used to attract adult male douglas-Fir Tussock Moth, leveraging the species' mating cues.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Douglas-Fir Tussock Moth
Calm, warm, and dry weather is generally more suitable for finding douglas-Fir Tussock Moth, as these conditions are conducive to its activity levels and life cycle progression.
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How and Where Can You Find Douglas-Fir Tussock Moth at Different Life Stages
Egg Douglas-Fir Tussock Moth eggs are laid in clusters and covered with hair-like setae from the female, which can be found on the undersides of leaves. During the appropriate season, inspect host trees systematically for the presence of these clusters.
Larva Douglas-Fir Tussock Moth caterpillars can be found on the foliage of its host trees. Look for defoliation or frass (caterpillar droppings) on or under the host trees as indicators of douglas-Fir Tussock Moth larvae. They are also gregarious, so where one is found, others may also be present.
Pupal Douglas-Fir Tussock Moth pupae are usually in protected areas near or on the ground, often in dead leaves or under loose bark. To safely find them, gently search through leaf litter or peel back loose bark on the ground or lower trunk of trees.
Adult Adult douglas-Fir Tussock Moth may be lured at night using light traps, as many moths are naturally attracted to light sources. Additionally, male douglas-Fir Tussock Moth are attracted to female pheromones, so pheromone traps are also effective. During the day, adults may be resting on tree trunks or camouflaged on the bark, where they blend in with the color and texture.
Are Douglas-Fir Tussock Moth harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Douglas-Fir Tussock Moth
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Forestry Pest

Larvae of douglas-Fir Tussock Moth feed on conifer needles, causing defoliation that can range from mild to severe. Mild infestations may slow growth, while severe cases can lead to tree death. The destruction of trees can adversely affect lumber industries, ecological balance, and human activities relying on forest health.

More Effects of Douglas-Fir Tussock Moth

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