For Anyone Interested in the Wildlife of the U.K.
Alder Moths
Identify It > Caterpillars Section > Alder Moths >
Scientific name: Acronicta alni
Size: Wingspan approximately 40mm
Distribution: Found in England, Wales, S.W. Scotland and Ireland
Months seen: May to June
Habitat: Parks and woodland
Food: Caterpillars feed on alder, birch, oak, hawthorn and goat willow
Special features: Alder moths are a pale grey colour with patchy black markings. They are often attracted to lights at night.
The black caterpillars, which can be found between July and August, have bright golden yellow bands and ornate, gloss black, paddle-like setae (hairs) along their body.
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