description Brown-tail moth Overview
The brown-tail moth, Euproctis chrysorrhoea, is a European moth in the family Erebidae whose white adults bear a distinctive brown tuft of hairs at the tip of the abdomen. Introduced to coastal New England in the 1890s, it became a major outbreak pest there in the early twentieth century and has caused renewed outbreaks in parts of northwest Europe in recent years. Its caterpillars carry barbed, toxic urticating hairs that cause severe skin rashes in humans, and the hairs remain irritating for years in shed skins and cocoons that can be stirred into the air.
help Brown-tail moth FAQ
How can I identify a brown-tail moth?
The brown-tail moth, Euproctis chrysorrhoea, has white adult wings and a distinctive brown tuft of hairs at the end of its abdomen. It belongs to the moth family Erebidae.
Where did the brown-tail moth become an invasive pest?
It was introduced to coastal New England in the 1890s. The species became a major outbreak pest in that region during the early twentieth century.
What is the scientific name of the brown-tail moth?
Its scientific name is Euproctis chrysorrhoea. The species is a European moth in the family Erebidae.
Why is the brown-tail moth historically important in New England?
After its introduction in the 1890s, it produced major outbreaks along coastal New England. Those outbreaks made it a notable pest in the region during the early 1900s.
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