The Lackey
Common NameThe Lackey
Scientific NameMalacosoma neustria
FamilyLasiocampidae
SubfamilyLasiocampinae
Wingspan (mm)37.5
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorslight brown, orange-brown
HabitatWoodlands, hedgerows, orchards, gardens, scrubland
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, temperate Asia
Host Plantshawthorn, blackthorn, apple, pear, plum, oak, willow, birch
Flight PeriodJuly to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in a distinctive band around twigs. Larvae are hairy, bluish-grey caterpillars with orange and white stripes, often found gregariously in silken tents. They pupate in a yellow cocoon.
Identification TipsKey features include the two distinct dark transverse lines on the forewings, the overall yellowish-brown coloration, and the strongly bipectinate (comb-like) antennae in males.
Description
A medium-sized, stout-bodied moth with furry, yellowish-brown to orange-brown wings. The forewings feature two prominent, slightly wavy, darker brown transverse lines.
