Fig tree moth
Common NameFig tree moth
Scientific NameEuproctis similis
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyLymantriinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorswhite, black, yellow-orange
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, gardens, parks, orchards
Geographic RangeEurope, Asia, North Africa, introduced to North America
Host Plantsfig, oak, hawthorn, willow, birch, elm, apple, pear, cherry, plum
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy, dark with red/orange markings, and possess urticating hairs. They overwinter as young larvae in communal webs and pupate in cocoons incorporating larval hairs.
Identification TipsLook for the pure white, fluffy body and wings, along with 1-3 small black dots on the forewings. The yellow-orange anal tuft on females is a key distinguishing feature.
Description
A small, fluffy, pure white moth with 1-3 distinctive small black dots on its forewings. Females typically have a prominent yellow-orange anal tuft.
