Species families: Underwing, Tiger, Tussock Moths and Allies

Herald

This unmistakable moth spends the winter as an adult, tucked away in a sheltered spot like a cave or outbuilding.

Yellow-tail

This snowy white moth is easily mistaken for the similar brown-tail, until it lifts its abdomen to reveal a burst of golden-yellow.

Brown-tail

The caterpillars of this fluffy white moth are best admired from a distance, as their hairs can irritate the skin.

Pale tussock

This large, fluffy-legged moth is often attracted to lights in May and June.

Burnet companion

This day-flying moth is found on flowery meadows, often in the company of other moths and butterflies.

Mother Shipton

This striking day-flying moth is named after a 16th century witch.

Vapourer

The mohawk-sporting caterpillar of this moth is often seen on shrubs and trees in late summer. As adults the orange-brown males fly by day, but the flightless females don't stray far from their cocoon.

Cinnabar

These pretty black and red moths are often confused for butterflies! Their black and yellow caterpillars are a common sight on ragwort plants. The caterpillar’s bright colours warn predators not to eat them, giving a strong signal that they are poisonous!

Garden tiger moth

The garden tiger is an attractive, brown-and-white moth of sand dunes, woodland edges, meadows and hedgerows; it will also visit gardens. In decline, it is suffering from the 'tidying up' of our countryside.

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