Western Tussock Moth

The western tussock moth, Orgyia vetusta, formerly Hemerocampa vetusta, is a moth found in the Pacific States and British Columbia, as well as an isolated population in Boise County, Idaho. The species is dimorphic; the females are flightless. This species has also been seen in gulf coast states such as Louisiana.

Empty O. vetusta cocoon, the pupal exuvia is clearly visible

References

• USDA Forest Pest Leaflet 120
• University of California pest management guidelines for Apple, Apricot, Cherry, Citrus, Pistachio, Plum, and Prune
• Stanford University Grounds Services: Evaluating the Effectiveness of Releasing Beneficial Insects to Control Tussock Moth Populations at Stanford University
• Note to caterpillars dangling under the oaks: Meet the beetles