ABSTRACT
Moths in the genus Hylesia are about 20 mm long and have a wingspan of about 40 mm. J. O. Alexander stated that the northern species are a golden color, whereas those from Peru and Argentina have dark brown or black stripes on the body. The wings and body are covered with numerous scales and long hairs. Hylesia moths occur from Mexico to Argentina. The Douglas fir tussock moth is a serious pest in western North America. Some of the worst outbreaks have occurred in British Columbia, Idaho, Washington, Oregon, Nevada, California, Arizona, and New Mexico. The white-marked tussock moth occurs throughout most of North America. Female Hylesia moths have barbed or spiny urticating setae that are called fleshettes. Fleshettes may break off and become airborne as large numbers of the moths emerge and gather around lights in towns or cities.
