Lackey Moth (Malacosoma neustria)
The lackey moth is a member of the family of lappet moths. Swedish zoologist Carl Linnaeus first described this moth in his 1758 10th edition of Systema Naturae.
Description and Identification
Caterpillar
The larvae are covered with bright orange, white and blue stripes, around 4-5.5 cm when fully mature. They prepare silken tents to regulate temperature.
Adult Moth
Sexual Dimorphism: Present but not prominent.
Color and Appearance
When the wings are opened, they appear to be a uniform color, either yellowish-orange or brown. There are two dark crossed lines over its wingspan. When the wings are closed, the colors remain visible.
Average wingspan: 2.5 – 3 cm
Flight pattern: Erratic
Season: June to August
Quick Facts
Distribution | Asia, North Africa, and Europe |
Habitat | Bushy grasslands, coppices, hedgerows, road verges, and woodlands |
Lifespan of Adults | Not recorded |
Host Plants | Apple, hornbeam, lime, oak, pear, plum, and willow |
Adult Diet | Does not feed |
Did You Know
- There are three sub-species of these moths – Malacosoma neustria neustria, Malacosoma neustria flavescens, and Malacosoma neustria formosana.
Scientific Classification
- Family: Lasiocampidae
- Genus: Malacosoma
- Scientific Name: Malacosoma neustria