Subject: anisota virgeniensis eggs
Location: winter park, fl
March 9, 2017 5:11 pm
I found a group of eggs outside on the floor which are from the Anisota virgeniensis family. what should I do with them? what do they feed on? how long do they take to hatch? I’m trying to figure out what tree to put them on, what leaves..
Signature: Natasha
Dear Natasha,
We are impressed that you were able to identify these eggs and puzzled why you did not know the answer to some of your questions once you had an identity. Your eggs do indeed look like the eggs of a Pink-Striped Oakworm, Anisota virginiensis, based on this BugGuide image. According to BugGuide: “Larvae feed on leaves of oak.” We suspect the eggs will likely hatch when new growth is sprouting on the oaks.
I had put them on an oak tree, but I wanted to make sure I was doing the right thing because I would’ve been upset if I didn’t. I tend to overthink things and I like to be re-assured of an answer. Thank you for your response.
We are tagging your posting with the Bug Humanitarian Award.
Hi,
Just at the school I went there was a dead mother oakworm moth with many eggs on her. I tried to place these on the tree but most did not stick so I brought them back in a container. My question is: If the eggs fall near an oak tree will they do fine or do they need to be stuck on the oak leaf? I would think they would be ok but I am not sure. thank you
They would stand a better chance if the female laid the eggs on the actual food source.
Ok, I will have fresh leaves nearby when they hatch. Some were placed on leaves and some are at the base of the tree because it rained but there is a lot of leaf litter so that should help them. But most are in my care. thank you
Hi,
Just at the school I went there was a dead mother oakworm moth with many eggs on her. I tried to place these on the tree but most did not stick so I brought them back in a container. My question is: If the eggs fall near an oak tree will they do fine or do they need to be stuck on the oak leaf? I would think they would be ok but I am not sure. thank you