Brown-tail Moth
Common NameBrown-tail Moth
Scientific NameEuproctis chrysorrhoea
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyLymantriinae
Wingspan (mm)38
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorswhite, brown, orange
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, orchards, hedgerows, coastal areas, gardens
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia; introduced to North America (especially northeastern US)
Host Plantsoak, hawthorn, blackthorn, apple, pear, cherry, willow, elm, rose
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in masses and covered with hairs from the female's abdomen. Larvae are dark, hairy caterpillars with red spots and white dashes, known for their urticating hairs. They overwinter in communal silken webs before pupating.
Identification TipsThe most reliable identification feature is the prominent reddish-brown 'tail' tuft at the end of the abdomen, which is particularly noticeable in females. The wings are uniformly pure white.
Description
A medium-sized moth with pure white wings and a white, hairy body, characterized by a distinctive reddish-brown tuft of hairs at the tip of the abdomen.
