Pale Tussock

Calliteara pudibunda

Common
Pale Tussock — photo 1 Pale Tussock — photo 2 Pale Tussock — photo 3

Description

Very hairy, spectacular caterpillar. Four pale yellow dorsal hair tufts on the abdomen. Long grey-white lateral hairs. Distinctive red-coral tail tuft.

Information

FamilyErebidae
Size3–4 cm
Hairinessfournie
Observation periodJuly to October
DistributionThroughout France and almost all of Europe.
ToxicitySlightly urticating
RarityCommon

Host plants

  • Beech
  • Oak
  • Hornbeam
  • Birch
  • Hazel
  • Lime
  • Apple
  • Rose
  • Raspberry

Notes

The red tail tuft is the most distinctive feature. Hairs can cause mild skin irritation.

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