Calliteara pudibunda

Irish status: Common Locally

Pale Tussock - has a wingspan of around 50 mm. The brightly coloured caterpillar of this moth can cause irritation to the skin. The moth itself has very hairy legs. It flies from May to June and is attracted to light. The male as shown here also has feathery antennae. This specimen was photographed in Greaghnafarna Co. Leitrim flying in late May.