Alpine Eriogaster
Common NameAlpine Eriogaster
Scientific NameEriogaster arbusculae
FamilyLasiocampidae
SubfamilyLasiocampinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsdark brown, white
HabitatAlpine and subalpine meadows, scrubland, open forests
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe (Alps, Pyrenees, Carpathians)
Host PlantsSalix spp. (willows), Vaccinium spp. (bilberry, cranberry), Betula nana (dwarf birch)
Flight PeriodApril to June
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are gregarious and hairy, living in silken webs. They pupate in a strong cocoon, often overwintering as pupae or eggs. The species is univoltine, having one generation per year.
Identification TipsKey features include the robust, hairy body, dark brown forewings with characteristic white wavy lines, and a prominent white triangular spot. Males have feathery antennae. It is typically found in alpine environments during early spring.
Description
A robust, medium-sized moth with a very hairy, dark brown body. Its forewings are dark brown, marked with prominent white, wavy transverse lines and a distinct white triangular spot near the costa.
