Types of moths in va. Virginia has been touted as the birthplace of the nation as well as the gateway to the south. See adult clearwing moths in the garden is a good indication of potential infestation. The insects can defoliate large swaths of trees and cause widespread destruction due to their hearty appetites. The species of these moths is referred to as a generalist feeder which means that they consume almost all types of plant species including many herbs and trees.
Moths click here to view caterpillars. Go back to the butterflies state listing. Entries are listed below in alphabetical order. Moths are in the insect order lepidoptera and share this order with butterflies.
Gypsy moths are not native to virginia and their existence is particularly worrisome because they have few natural predators in the area. Species can be found across the country in most residential areas and they can be a problem because their larvae develop within trees and garden plants. Click on the x found on each entry below to hide specific bugs from this pages listing. In the united states there are nearly 11000 species of moths.
Moth insects found in the state of virginia. Family sphingidae sphinx moths hawkmoths. Please understand that that insects do not adhere to man drawn borders on a map as such they may be found beyond the general reach as showcased on our website. Insects are typically drawn to areas by available food supply weather.
There are some 160000 species of moths in the world compared to 17500 species of butterflies. Around the garden some species such as squash vine borer for example can cause damage. Consider contributing an image at the email address showcased at the bottom of this page. There are a total of 443 west virginia butterflies and moths found in the insect identification database.
The wingspan of these moths ranges from 45 65 cm and the wings are orange yellowish in color with pointed and marked forewings. Butterflies and moths of virginia showcase listing of butterflies and moths found in the state of virginia. Moths in northern virginia as described by the prince william conservation alliance discover northern virginia nature. Among the states dogwood trees and foliage some of the most interesting and beautiful moths are found.
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