Yellow Tussock
Common NameYellow Tussock
Scientific NameEuproctis similis
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyLymantriinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorsyellow, orange
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, gardens, parks, hedgerows
Geographic RangeEurope, temperate Asia, introduced to North America (Pacific Northwest)
Host Plantsoak, willow, birch, hawthorn, cherry, apple
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy, dark with red spots and white tufts, feeding on various broadleaf trees. They pupate in a silk cocoon, often incorporating larval hairs.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive bright yellow/orange coloration, hairy body, and the two subtle wavy lines on the forewings. Males have prominent feathery antennae, while females often have a prominent white anal tuft.
Description
A medium-sized, fluffy moth with a bright yellow to orange body and wings, often featuring two faint, wavy pale lines on the forewings. Males have strongly bipectinate (feathery) antennae.
