Puss Moth

Cerura vinula
Notodontidae
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Description

Very distinctive caterpillar with two forked tails from which pink filaments emerge. Able to spit formic acid when disturbed.

Information
Size
5–7 cm
Observation period
June to September
Toxicity
No
Rarity
Common
Host plants
PoplarWillowAspenBirch
Distribution

Throughout France and virtually all of Europe, near wetlands where host plants grow.

Notes

The pink filaments are waved to deter predators. Can spit formic acid.