Horishanella Tussock Moth
Common NameHorishanella Tussock Moth
Scientific NameCalliteara horishanella
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyLymantriinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorsgrey, black, white, orange
HabitatMountainous forests, subtropical forests
Geographic RangeTaiwan
Host PlantsQuercus, Castanopsis, Fagus, Betula
Flight PeriodYear-round in suitable climates, with peaks in warmer months
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically hairy (tussocky) and may cause skin irritation. They feed on various broadleaf trees and pupate in cocoons, often incorporating larval hairs.
Identification TipsLook for the mottled grey and black forewings, the contrasting orange-brown hindwing/abdominal coloration, and the strongly bipectinate antennae in males.
Description
This is a medium-sized tussock moth with mottled grey and black forewings, often featuring white markings, and a prominent orange-brown patch on the hindwings and abdomen. Males possess distinctive feathery antennae.
