what’s that moth
Location: Grand Teton National Park, Surprise Lake Trail
November 13, 2011 12:54 pm
Large moth found sitting in low shrubs mid-day, July 27, 2011, at about 8000 feet elevation in Grand Teton National Park. Large size and bright color really made it stand out – it was over an inch long. I’m guessing it may be an atypical (lacking black bands) western sheep moth. Would love to know what it is. Thanks.
Signature: Larry
Hi Larry,
We apologize for the delay. We agree with you that this is a Western Sheep Moth or Elegant Sheep Moth, Hemileuca eglanterina. As you indicated, some individuals lack the black bands that make the wings resemble a stained glass window. See BugGuide for more photos of the Elegant Sheep Moth.