
Community identification
White ermine moth
Spilosoma lubricipeda
- Order & Family
- Lepidoptera; family Erebidae (subfamily Arctiinae)
- Size
- Adult wingspan is typically 30–42 mm.
Natural Habitat
Found in gardens, grasslands, woodland edges, hedgerows, and other vegetation-rich habitats across much of Europe and parts of temperate Asia.
Diet & Feeding
Caterpillars feed on a wide range of herbaceous plants, shrubs, and trees. Adults primarily drink nectar and may feed little or not at all.
Behavior Patterns
Mostly nocturnal and attracted to lights; adults fly from late spring through summer. Hairy larvae are often active openly on foliage and overwinter as pupae or larvae, depending on climate.
Risks & Benefits
Harmless to people and not a significant household pest. Larvae contribute to food webs, while adults pollinate flowers; locally abundant caterpillars can cause minor leaf damage.