Other Common Names
Definite-marked Tussock Moth
Identification
"Caterpillars of Orgyia definita are readily identified by the yellow color of the head, prothoracic plate and dorsal glands. The hair pencils are less fully developed than in the other species. The hair on the body is entirely whitish and the verrucae (the wart-like structures along the body) are pale yellow." (University of Florida)
Males are brown with a darker pattern and some white markings.
Females (below) are wingless and therefore flightless.
Range
Most common in New England and Middle Atlantic states. (University of Florida)
Food
Larvae feed on apple, ash, basswood, birches, boxelder, cherry, elm, maple, oaks and willows (Auburn University)
Remarks
CAUTION: the hairs of caterpillars in this genus are known to cause skin irritation.
Internet References
Tussock Moths in Florida - includes fully illustrated life cycle of another member of the genus
