Cyprus Processionary Moth
Common NameCyprus Processionary Moth
Scientific NameThaumetopoea wilkinsoni
FamilyNotodontidae
SubfamilyThaumetopoeinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black
HabitatPine forests, Mediterranean woodlands
Geographic RangeCyprus, Turkey, Lebanon, Israel, Syria, Jordan
Host PlantsPinus brutia, Pinus halepensis, Pinus pinea, Pinus sylvestris
Flight PeriodAugust to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are gregarious, forming silken nests on pine trees and feeding on needles. They move in characteristic 'processions' and possess urticating hairs. Pupation occurs in the soil.
Identification TipsLook for mottled grey-brown forewings with dark markings and a stout, hairy body. Key identification also relies on the presence of characteristic silken nests and 'processions' of larvae on pine trees.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled greyish-brown forewings marked with darker transverse lines and a discal spot, and paler hindwings. Its body is stout and covered in dense, greyish hair.
