Hag-moth
Guides
Phobetron
hag moth, monkey slug
Phobetron is a genus of slug caterpillar moths in the family Limacodidae, containing at least four described species distributed across North, Central, and South America. The genus is notable for its distinctive caterpillars, commonly called "monkey slugs" or "hag moths," which possess stinging urticating spines concealed beneath a cloak of hair-like setae. These caterpillars are polyphagous and feed on a wide range of woody and herbaceous plants. The genus includes the well-known species Phobetron pithecium, whose caterpillar is frequently encountered in eastern North America.