Long-tailed Bombyx
Common NameLong-tailed Bombyx
Scientific NameTrichosea ludifica
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyPantheinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorscream, white, light brown
HabitatDeciduous and mixed forests, woodlands
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe, parts of Asia
Host Plantsoak, beech, birch, willow, poplar
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are hairy, often with dorsal tufts, and feed on the leaves of various deciduous trees. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, typically in leaf litter or soil.
Identification TipsKey features include its overall fluffy, creamy-white appearance, the prominent feathery antennae (especially in males), and the characteristic 'long tail' tuft of hair at the tip of the abdomen.
Description
A medium-sized, very fluffy moth with creamy-white forewings and hindwings, a densely hairy body, and prominent feathery antennae. It features a distinctive tuft of hair at the end of its abdomen, giving it a 'long-tailed' appearance.
