Common NameSagebrush SheepmothSeasonalityThe single AB record is from mid-August. Dates from Montana suggest peak activity is in early AugustIdentificationA relatively large moth, easily recognized by the black pattern on the white background. The only other species similar to this in Alberta is H. eglanterina, which has a pink and yellow ground colour, not white.
Scientific NameHemileuca heraCommon Name
Sagebrush Sheepmoth
Habitat
Look for in the prairie region where sagebrush (Artemesia cana) is common.
Seasonality
The single AB record is from mid-August. Dates from Montana suggest peak activity is in early August
Identification
A relatively large moth, easily recognized by the black pattern on the white background. The only other species similar to this in Alberta is H. eglanterina, which has a pink and yellow ground colour, not white.
Life History
Not known for AB; may have a two-year life cycle, overwintering first as an egg, then as a pupa. These moths are active during the day and are not attracted to light.
Conservation
More survey work is needed to determine this species' status in the province.
Diet Info
Larvae feed on Sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata, A. filifolia) in the southern U.S. Likely Artemisia cana in AB, as this is the only Sagebrush species found on the prairie.
Range
There is only one record of this species for Alberta, from Dinosaur Provincial Park. It almost certainly occurs in the southeast corner of the province, because it is known from Govenlock, SK near the AB/SK border.…
There is only one record of this species for Alberta, from Dinosaur Provincial Park. It almost certainly occurs in the southeast corner of the province, because it is known from Govenlock, SK near the AB/SK border. Ranges from southern SK west to B.C., south to Arizona and New Mexico.
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Citation
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Page Citation for Hemileuca hera
Page Citation
"Species Details - Hemileuca hera, University of Alberta E.H. Strickland Entomological Museum." University of Alberta Museums Search Site, https://search.museums.ualberta.ca/g/2-268. Accessed 08 Nov. 2024.
Specimen Information
There are 2 specimens of this Species.
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2 results plotted on map in 2 markers. Note: Only records with latitude and longitude coordinates are plotted on map.