Synonyms and other taxonomic changes
Zeuzera pyrina (Linnaeus, 1761)
Noctua pyrina Linnaeus, 1761
(1) Size
wingspan 50-60 mm (female); 35-40 mm (male)
Identification
Adult: white with black spots. Spots more numerous and smaller than those of Giant Leopard Moth, and none of the spots are hollow. Legs all black.
Caterpillar is smooth, orange with black spots. See
Forestry Images for pictures.
Range
Native to Europe, northern Africa and Asia.
northeastern United States, mostly along Atlantic coast
introduced into the northeastern United States prior to 1879
Food
Larvae are wood-borers, feeding inside twigs (smaller larvae) and stems of various hardwood trees and shrubs.
(2)Life Cycle
Takes 2-3 years to complete its life cycle. Eggs may be laid from late spring through early September.
(2)Remarks
Unlike the Giant Leopard Moth, this one is not native to the US. Supposedly introduced (from its native Europe?) in mid-1800s; first reported in North America at Hoboken, New Jersey in 1882.
It is considered a pest of some fruit trees.
See Also
Giant Leopard Moth (
Hypercompe scribonia) forewing has at least some hollow spots, and legs contain much white (not all black)
Internet References
pinned adult image by James Solomon, plus species account in North America (forestpests.org)
Moths of Maryland adult images and info