Butterflies and Moths of North America

collecting and sharing data about Lepidoptera

  Sighting 1057470

Douglas Fir Tussock Moth
Orgyia pseudotsugata

Observation date: July 25, 2015
Submitted by: jmShick
Specimen type: Photograph
Observation notes: Observed in large quantities in the area of Pine Grove, CO. Approximate elevation: 6750. Weather was sunny with little rain or wind during the period of observance (Friday July 24, 2015 through Sunday July 26, 2015).
Status: Resident
Verified by: A_baldini
Verified date: January 06, 2019
Coordinator notes: The Douglas Fir Tussock Moth, Orgyia pseudotsugata. Coincidentally, I was very close by (Meadows Group campground) right around this time in 2015, and these caterpillars were everywhere, including all over the picnic tables! They are typically considered a pest by the Forest Service.
Checklist region(s): United States, Colorado, Jefferson County