Walnut Caterpillar Moth

Fascinating facts about the Walnut Caterpillar Moth

• From the forests of Ontario down to northern Mexico, the walnut caterpillar moth blankets eastern North America, stretching west to Minnesota. Its larvae munch on a buffet of trees, hickories (Carya), walnuts (Juglans), willows (Salix), oaks (Quercus) and even honey locust (Gleditsia triacanthos).
• Adult walnut caterpillar moths spread their wings to a span of 35-50 mm and take to the air from May through August.

At a glance

About the Walnut Caterpillar Moth

In the dappled light of eastern North America's deciduous forests, the Walnut Caterpillar Moth emerges as a master of subtle elegance, its mottled brown wings beating with a gentle urgency as it navigates the intricate web of tree branches and leafy undergrowth. With a quiet determination, it moves through the world, its caterpillars weaving silk tents around the tender shoots of walnut and hickory trees, a testament to the ingenuity and resilience that has allowed this moth to thrive in its native habitat. As the seasons unfold, the Walnut Caterpillar Moth remains an enigmatic presence, its beauty and complexity waiting to be unearthed by the discerning observer.

More insects and spiders to discover

Browse Feravox