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Flannel moth

Megalopyge opercularis

Photo by Maria dB
Published on Project Noah
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35.9132, -79.0558

Field Notes

Description:

Exuvia (exoskeleton) left behind when the moth emerged from its "cocoon". The larva does not spin a real cocoon, rather, it separates from its furry skin and uses it as a protective covering while it pupates.

Habitat:

Mason Farm Biological Reserve

Reference Links:

Megalopyge opercularis, puss caterpillar (larva), southern flannel moth (adult) Megalopyge opercularis

Species ID Suggestions

Comments (2)
Maria dB
Sskel - this was a surprise to me, too. I thought this was a potter wasp exoskeleton. If you click on the second reference link I gave, there is quite a lengthy description of how these moths reproduce.
Sckel
very interesting. I also found this. I did not know that Lepidoptera have an exoskeleton. I was wondering how the moth cut the cocoon. you have any idea?

Spotted for Missions

Mission
Butterflies & Moths of the World
Mission
Moths of the World
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Animals of North Carolina
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Mason Farm Biological Reserve
Mission
National Geographic's Great Nature Project

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Photographed
PublishedAugust 9, 2014

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