Puss Moth
FamilyNotodontidae
Scientific NameCerura vinula
RangeEurope, Asia, North Africa
HabitatWoodland, wetlands
About the Puss Moth
The adult is a fluffy white and gray moth resembling a cat. Its caterpillar is one of the most remarkable in Europe. When threatened it pulls its head back to show a red ring with false eye spots, raises a pair of whip-like tails, and can spray formic acid. Caterpillars feed on willows and poplars. The pupa is protected by a hard cocoon of chewed wood.