Western furcula moth facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Western furcula moth |
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The western furcula moth (also known as the double-lined furcula or willow kitten) is a fascinating type of moth. It belongs to a family of moths called Notodontidae. These moths are found across a wide area in North America.
You can find the western furcula moth from southern Yukon and British Columbia all the way to Nova Scotia. They also live south into states like Maryland and west to Utah and Oregon.
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Meet the Western Furcula Moth!
The western furcula moth is a medium-sized moth. Its wingspan (how wide it is from wingtip to wingtip) is usually between 32 and 45 millimeters. That's about the size of a large paperclip!
What Does It Look Like?
The front wings of this moth are a pale grayish color. They have a darker gray band in the middle and a dark gray patch. The back wings are a light grayish-white. They have a line of black dots along the edge and a dark spot in the center. These colors help the moth blend in with its surroundings.
The Life Cycle of the Western Furcula Moth
Adult western furcula moths are usually seen flying from April to August. They can have one or two groups of babies (generations) each year.
What Do Young Moths Eat?
The young moths, called larvae (or caterpillars), love to eat the leaves of willow trees. Sometimes, they also eat the leaves of Populus trees, like poplars or aspens. You can find these caterpillars munching on leaves from June to September.
How Do They Survive Winter?
When winter comes, the western furcula moth is in its pupa stage. This is like a resting stage, often inside a cocoon. The pupa stays safe through the cold months, waiting for spring to arrive. When it gets warmer, the pupa will change into an adult moth, and the cycle begins again!
Images for kids
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A close-up of the western furcula moth.
