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buck moth

noun
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Definition of buck moth

: a large autumn-flying saturniid moth (Hemileuca maia) of the eastern U.S. with smoky translucent wings crossed by a white band and a spiny larva that feeds on oak foliage

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History and Etymology for buck moth

so called from its prevalence in the deer season

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Cite this Entry

“Buck moth.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/buck%20moth. Accessed 16 Feb. 2020.

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