How Long Before Tent Caterpillars Turn into Moths

An adult male eastern tent moth. The adult moth emerges from the cocoon about 3 weeks later. The moth is reddish-brown with two pale stripes running diagonally across each forewing.

How long does it take a tent caterpillar to turn into a moth?

Approximately six weeks after hatching, and five instars later, the larva become fully grown (up to 2 inches long, sparsely hairy). Pupation occurs in silken cocoons which are found on tree trunks, fences, or leaf litter. About two weeks later adult moths emerge and soon deposit the overwintering eggs.

Do forest tent caterpillars turn into moths?

Forest tent caterpillars will build cocoons on houses, lawn furniture, and other structures. The forest tent caterpillar adult stage is a moth, which is attracted to light. The moths can become a nuisance factor at night, especially when they are found indoors hovering around light sources.