For Anyone Interested in the Wildlife of the U.K.
Brown-tail Moths
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Scientific name: Euproctis chrysorrhoea
Size: Wingspan up to 42mm
Distribution: Found in most parts of England, especially southern and central areas. A few sightings in Wales and the southern Scottish border
Months seen: July and August (readily attracted to light)
Life span: The adult moths live for just 3 or 4 weeks
Habitat: Coastal areas, parks and woodlands
Food: Caterpillars feed on bramble, blackthorn and other deciduous trees
Special features: Brown-tail moths are completely white, with the exception of the abdomen which is brown (hence the name). The tip of the abdomen is like a brush.
Brown-tail caterpillars are covered in barbed hairs which can cause prolonged skin irritation, so it's best to avoid handling them, or their cocoons. The caterpillars overwinter in a silk tent for protection.
The caterpillars are sometimes confused with those of the Knot Grass Moth (Acronicta rumicis).
When the female moths emerge from their cocoons they collect some hairs from the case with the tips of their abdomens. These hairs are brushed onto their eggs to give them some protection.
Sightings
2007 - Spurn Point, East Riding of Yorkshire - Dick Roberts
2010 - Exmouth, Devon - Beryl Ladd
2011 - Hampshire - Deryn Hawkins
2013 - N. Wales - Selwyn Lloyd-Jones
2014 - Monkton N.R., Ramsgate, Kent - Anne Roberts
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