Fauna
Insect · GBIF taxon 1819145

Pale Tussock Moth

Calliteara pudibunda

Also known as Pale Tussock, Hop Dog

Pale tussock moths rest during the day with their exceptionally hairy forelegs stretched forward, giving them an elongated, wedge-like posture against tree bark. Late in the summer, their caterpillars transform into striking, brush-like larvae sporting dense yellow or lime-green tufts and a vivid red rear hair pencil. Adults possess non-functional mouthparts and live exclusively on stored fat reserves accrued during their larval stage.

NocturnalWoodlandFurry Legs
Pale Tussock Moth reference
Licensed reference(c) goldentakin, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by goldentakin · cc-by
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & prey
  • Oak leaves
  • Beech leaves
  • Birch leaves
Predators
  • Insectivorous birds
  • Bats
  • Parasitoid wasps
ThreatsHabitat fragmentation, broad-spectrum pesticide use, and artificial night lighting
HabitatsDeciduous woodlands, mixed forests, parks, and hedgerows
Life spanAbout 1 year, with adults surviving only 1–2 weeks
Classification
  1. OrderLepidoptera
  2. FamilyErebidae
  3. GenusCalliteara
  4. SpeciesCalliteara pudibunda
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Caterpillar hairs can cause localized skin itching or rash; observe without handling.
Why it is dangerous
The barbed setae on the caterpillar mechanically irritate skin and can trigger contact dermatitis.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Bright yellow, green, or pink caterpillar with four brush-like tufts and a distinct red rear hair pencil.
What to do
View the caterpillar on foliage without touching; use a leaf or stick if relocation is necessary.
Responsible observation
  • Spotting Larvae: Look beneath mature broadleaf trees in early autumn when bright yellow caterpillars descend to pupate.
  • Attracting Adults: Set up a woodland moth light trap between May and June to observe furry winged adults.
  • Gentle Observation: Avoid touching the caterpillar hairs directly to prevent minor contact dermatitis.
Related species
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