Tussock Moth Larva (Caterpillar)

Natural Habitat

Found in forests, parks, and gardens on various host trees and shrubs across North America and Europe.

Diet & Feeding

Folivore; feeds on the leaves of a wide variety of deciduous and coniferous trees including oak, willow, and balsam fir.

Behavior Patterns

Active during the day; the larvae are known for their distinctive tufts of hair and can disperse by spinning silk threads to catch the wind, a process called ballooning.

Risks & Benefits

The hairs (setae) can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions (urticaria) in humans upon contact. While they are part of the native ecosystem, large outbreaks can cause significant defoliation of host trees.

Identified on: 1/12/2026