Fall Webworm: Moth

Fall Webworm Moth, Hyphantria cunea

The fall webworm is native to North America and can be found from southern Canada to northern Mexico. It has become an invasive pest throughout Europe and Asia, and is often considered a pest in its native range for its preference to feed on ornamental plants and agricultural crops. Although the large webs created by larvae in any of its numerous host trees looks damaging, even severe infestations have little impact on trees as it is during the end of the growing season.

Orange hairs on the prothorax and foreleg can help in identification.

The adult form of the fall webworm has geographical distinctions. In the north, the moth is usually all white while in the south it is more heavily marked with dark spots. The adult form can be spotted year round in many southern locations, but fall webworm moths are generally limited to the summer months. The larval form is often more readily observed than the nocturnal adult form.