Garden Tiger Moth
Arctia caja
Common
Description
The Garden Tiger caterpillar is one of the hairiest in Europe — its dark brown to black body is entirely covered in long tawny-brown hairs on the flanks and white hairs on the back, growing from small raised warts. This abundant hairiness has earned it the nickname "woolly bear". When threatened, it immediately curls into a ball, using its fur as a shield. The hairs are not stinging but may cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals. It overwinters mid-development and resumes growth in spring, making early instars visible in autumn and fully grown caterpillars the following spring.
Information
| Family | Erebidae |
|---|---|
| Size | 5–6 cm |
| Hairiness | fournie |
| Observation period | April to September |
| Distribution | Throughout France and almost all of Europe. |
| Toxicity | Slightly urticating |
| Rarity | Common |
Host plants
- Nettle
- Dandelion
- Bramble
- Bedstraw
- Willow
- Thistle
- Sorrel
- Clover
- Plantain