Rusty Tussock Moth Caterpillar

Found in forests, parks, and gardens across Europe, North America, and parts of Asia. They inhabit deciduous and coniferous trees and shrubs.

Polyphagous herbivore; feeds on a wide variety of host plants including oak, birch, willow, apple, and various conifers.

Features distinctive hair tufts (brush-like) and long hair pencils. Females are flightless and stay near their cocoon to lay eggs. Larvae are active during the day.

Hairs contain toxins that can cause skin irritation (urticaria) or allergic reactions in humans. They can occasionally cause localized defoliation of trees as a pest.