Tau Emperor Moth
Common NameTau Emperor Moth
Scientific NameAglia tau
FamilySaturniidae
SubfamilyAgliinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Wing Patterneyespot
Primary Colorsorange, black, white
HabitatDeciduous and mixed forests, woodlands, parks
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia
Host Plantsbirch, beech, oak, willow, lime, alder, hazel, elm, cherry
Flight PeriodApril to June
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants. Larvae are typically green with red spots and spines, feeding on leaves. Pupation occurs in a cocoon on the ground or in leaf litter, with adults emerging the following spring.
Identification TipsEasily identified by the striking black eyespots on all four wings, which each contain a white mark resembling the Greek letter 'tau'. The overall tawny-orange coloration is also characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized moth with a tawny-orange body and wings, featuring prominent black eyespots on all four wings, each containing a distinctive white 'tau' shaped mark.
