Question about flightless moth for bendyfoot (or anyone else who likes mysteries)
 

I came across my first flightless female moth today--she's set up her nursery on the inside of the latch to the west gate. If it helps, she's directly under red pines, but there are also a lot of oaks. The understory is primarily hazelnut, dogwood and elderberry.

Any idea what type of moth she might be?

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Because we're currently trying to keep gypsy moths under control, hubby was wondering if she was a gypsy moth--I don't think so because she has no wings and as far as I know, fem gypsy moths have lovely white wings despite being flightless.

Wow Hazel,I've never heard of a flight-less Moth,interesting pics,is that like a big nest in the pic?
I have this unreasonable phobia about Moths,I will never kill one though,they have a right to live.

I think that big nesty looking thing was her cocoon, chico. She's laying eggs on it now. :D

I've been trying to ID it this afternoon--I think it's some sort of tussock moth, but I don't know what kind, or if it's something that's gonna get out of hand. :shrug: Pretty cool, though--I could actually see her laying eggs!!

That is neat, hazel! I have been watching this show called "Life" by the makers of "Planet Earth" and we just finished the insects episode. We got to see some insects laying eggs, but I bet it's much more interesting in person!

I tried to do some Google research to identify your moth, but it's really hard to find pictures of the females! Always the caterpillers and the males. :shrug:

I noticed that, too--just the males and caterpillars. :shrug: I did finally find a site to post a pic on--someone there may be able to identify it. She's gone today, but the eggs are doing well. :D When they hatch, though, all they're gonna find is the metal gate! Not much to eat there! :o