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Pale tussock

Pale tussock

Calliteara pudibunda

A species of Calliteara, Also known as Hop dog

The pale tussock (Calliteara pudibunda) is called that based on their adult form, which is a light grey moth. Females tend to be larger and greyer than their male counterparts. Their young appears to reflect their rebellious years, as their larval stage varies from lime green to a red color. They are also picky eaters, as they stick with beech trees. 

Does the Pale tussock cause allergies?
Allergenic
General Info About Pale tussock
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Attributes of Pale tussock
Colors
Brown
Gray
White
Habitat
forest; park; garden; hedgerow
Larva Food Source
Leaves of deciduous trees, fruit tree foliage, occasionally coniferous trees, birch, hawthorn
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
The Pale tussock has special defensive behaviors that can trigger an allergic reaction. If there are serious reactions, seek IMMEDIATE medical attention.
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Pale tussock feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Vestigial
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Species Status of Pale tussock
It is distributed in Europe, North and Southeast Asia.
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Distribution Area of Pale tussock
Europe, Anatolia, Caucasus, western Siberia, eastern Russia, Korea, China and northern Vietnam
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Appearance of Pale tussock
The wingspan is 4 - 6 cm. Female: Forewing greyish white dusted with dark, and bearing dark wavy transverse lines edged with pure white on the inner side. Hindwing white with indication of a dark submarginal band. Male: Forewing olive-grey, with black median area and darker indistinct slightly wavy transverse lines in the marginal and basal areas. Hindwing greyish yellow, with a transverse band which is slightly more distinct than in the female, and sometimes forms an elbowed anal. Egg light yellowish brown with dark median spot. Larva usually light lemon-yellow, but sometimes brownish yellow, violet or blackish grey, with deep black segmental incisions, lighter dorsal brushes and red or brown pencil on the 11th segment.
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How to Identify Pale tussock?

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Life Cycle of Pale tussock
Egg For pale tussock, eggs are laid in clusters and are initially tiny and spherical. Their color can range from white to a more subtle hue, depending on the species. During this stage, the embryo develops within the egg, which seems nearly static from the outside.
Larva Hatching from the egg, the larva or caterpillar of pale tussock is elongated with a worm-like appearance. It possesses chewing mouthparts and spends this stage voraciously consuming leaves. These larval stages, often called instars, vary in color and pattern as they molt and grow.
Pupal The pale tussock's pupal stage is a period of transformation enclosed within a chrysalis or cocoon. Outwardly, it appears to be a static phase. However, extensive reorganization is occurring within, as tissues differentiate into adult structures.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult pale tussock displays wings and functional reproductive organs. Its body is fully formed and exoskeleton hardened. Now, the adult is mobile, focusing on feeding and mating, adorned with colorful scales that often aid in species recognition and mating.
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Adult Size of Pale tussock
4 - 6 cm
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Predators of Pale tussock Larvae
Birds, rodents, insectivorous mammals, reptiles, larger arthropods
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Predators of Adult Pale tussock
Bats, birds, spiders
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Interesting Facts About Pale tussock
Despite its delicate appearance, pale tussock caterpillars have unique bristles that can cause skin irritation to unsuspecting handlers.
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Scientific Classification of Pale tussock
Tips for Finding Pale tussock
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Youth Habitat of Pale tussock
Forests and Woodlands
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Adult Habitat of Pale tussock
Forests and Woodlands
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How Can You Attract Pale tussock
Pale tussock in its adult form is attracted to light sources at night, making it possible to trap or observe individuals using light traps or by simply leaving outdoor lights on.
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Habitat Preferences of Pale tussock Through Different Life Stages
The early larvae of pale tussock are found on a variety of deciduous trees and shrubs where they feed on leaves. As they progress through instars, they can often be found on lower vegetation or in leaf litter for protection against predators. The mature caterpillars usually descend to the ground to pupate in a cocoon amidst the ground litter. To find pale tussock in different stages, one would look at the foliage of host trees for young larvae, examine lower vegetation and leaf litter for larger larvae and potential pupation sites, and monitor the canopy as well as understory in the habitats they thrive in.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Pale tussock
The suitable time to find pale tussock varies with its life stage. Caterpillars are often active during daytime, whereas adults are typically nocturnal and thus can be observed or trapped at night.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Pale tussock
Pale tussock may be more active, and therefore easier to find, in warmer weather without strong winds or heavy rain, as these conditions are not conducive to flight or feeding.
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How and Where Can You Find Pale tussock at Different Life Stages
Egg Pale tussock eggs are usually laid in clusters on the underside of host plant leaves. To find them, inspect leaves of known host plants in the habitat of pale tussock.
Larva Pale tussock caterpillars are often found on or near their food plants. Look for signs of feeding, such as chewed leaves, and you may find pale tussock caterpillars nearby.
Pupal Pale tussock pupae can be located hidden in crevices or buried in soil or leaf litter near the food plants. Gently search through potential pupation sites to find them.
Adult Pale tussock adults are attracted to light sources at night. Setting up a light in a suitable habitat can help in observing or trapping pale tussock moths for study or collection.
Are Pale tussock harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Pale tussock
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Allergenic
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Does the Pale tussock cause allergies?

Pale tussock can cause mild allergic reactions in a small number of people. The risk arises primarily during its larval stage when contact with its hairs may trigger symptoms. Different individuals may experience varying degrees of effects, though severe cases are uncommon. Avoiding direct contact is advisable to minimize the risk of allergy.

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Hurt Plant

Pale tussock causes significant damage through feeding on the leaves and fruits of host plants such as Oak, Willow, Lime, and Birch. The insect chews plant tissues, leading to defoliation and compromised fruit integrity which can result in stunted growth, reduced photosynthesis, and overall vitality, potentially devastating the affected trees.

More Effects of Pale tussock

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