Puss Moth

Cerura vinula (L)

The Puss Moth caterpillar feeds on Aspen, Willow etc, and is quite well camouflaged, being mainly green. However, if disturbed it produces two bright red filaments from the end of it’s body and waves them about.

If seriously provoked it can also squirt Formic acid.

Before the caterpillar pupates it makes a cocoon by sticking fragments of wood or leaves together with silk and attaches it to the trunk of a tree. The cocoon can resemble bark so closely that it is very difficult to see.

The pupa remains in this tough shelter all winter, and emerges in the spring. The cocoon is so tough that the moth has to secrete a caustic substance that dissolves the silk, enabling it to emerge.

The adult moth is active in the spring or summer and is quite often attracted to light.