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Nevada Buck Moth – Hemileuca nevadensis

Nevada Buck Moth – Hemileuca nevadensis Common Name: Nevada Buck Moth Latin Name: Hemileuca nevadensis Appearance: The Nevada Buck Moth is a medium-sized moth with a wingspan of about 2 inches (5 cm). The forewings are gray-brown with wavy white lines, while the hindwings are bright orange with black spots.
  • Egg:The eggs of the Nevada Buck Moth are laid in clusters on the undersides of leaves.
  • Pupae:The pupae are reddish-brown and are typically found in cocoons in the soil.
  • Larva:The larva of the Nevada Buck Moth is black with orange or yellow markings and is covered in spines.
  • Adults:The adults are typically active during the day and can be seen flying from May to August.
Host plants: The Nevada Buck Moth larvae feed on various plants, including sagebrush, rabbitbrush, and bitterbrush. Territory: The Nevada Buck Moth is found throughout much of the western United States, including Nevada, California, Oregon, and Utah. Damages caused by Nevada Buck Moth: The larvae of the Nevada Buck Moth can cause significant damage to host plants, especially in areas where they are abundant. Life history and Habits: The Nevada Buck Moth has a one-year life cycle, with adults emerging from their cocoons in the spring or early summer. The females lay their eggs on host plants, and the larvae feed on the leaves until they are fully grown. The larvae then pupate in the soil, and the adults emerge the following spring or early summer. The Nevada Buck Moth is an important food source for birds and other animals and is also a popular species among insect collectors.