Jersey Tiger

Euplagia quadripunctaria
Erebidae
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Description

The Jersey Tiger caterpillar is black, with a pale dorsal line and a white lateral line along the flanks. The body is covered in short, dense tufts of hair growing from small orange warts. The head is black. Early instars are very inconspicuous and the caterpillar lives hidden in low vegetation. It overwinters mid-development and resumes activity in spring. Its hairs are not urticating, but unnecessary handling is still inadvisable.

Information
Size
4–5 cm
Observation period
September to May
Toxicity
No
Rarity
Common
Host plants
NettleDandelionPlantainIvyRaspberryBorageHazel
Distribution

Present throughout France and much of Europe.