Caterpillars of Eastern Forests

Yellow-based Tussock Moth (Dasychira basiflava)

Coloration highly variable ranging from yellow to very dark; prominent paired black front and rear "lashes." Middorsum on first 4 abdominal segments with brown tufts, often with intermixed pale setae; dorsal tuft on eighth segment nearly black. Lateral tussock below abdominal spiracles with 1 to few long, slender dark hairs. Dorsal defensive glands yellow or white. In some parts of range, closely similar to variable tussock moth and others in genus Dasychira. Food: especially oaks and hickories. Caterpillar: September to June, Dasychira overwinter as partially grown caterpillars; 1 generation.

Previous Section -- White-marked Tussock Moth
Return to Listing of Tussock Moths
Next Section -- Streaked Tussock Moth