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Oak eggar

Oak eggar

Lasiocampa quercus

A species of Lasiocampa, Also known as Oak moth

A common species of moth in its native range, oak eggar (Lasiocampa quercus) is Britain's largest day-flying moth. Surprisingly, while it consumes a large variety of plant species, it is not confirmed to consume any species of oak. It derives its common name from the shape of its cocoon, which somewhat resembles an acorn in shape.

Does the Oak eggar cause allergies?
Allergenic
General Info About Oak eggar
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Attributes of Oak eggar
Colors
Yellow
Orange
Habitat
scrub; heath; moor; downland; hedge; cliff
Larva Food Source
Oak leaves, hazel leaves, willow leaves, birch leaves, hawthorn leaves
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
The Oak eggar 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
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Vestigial
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Appearance of Oak eggar
The moth's wingspan is about 4.5 cm (male) to 8 cm (female), the female being larger and paler than the male. The caterpillar pupates on the ground inside a silken cocoon, the exterior of which is hard and yellowish, and resembles an acorn, hence the moth's name.
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How to Identify Oak eggar?

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Life Cycle of Oak eggar
Egg The eggs of oak eggar are often round and tiny. They're usually laid in clusters and attached to leaves or stems. The color varies but often matches the environment for camouflage.
Larva Upon hatching, the larvae or caterpillars of oak eggar start feeding voraciously. They're elongated with a soft body, bearing distinct color patterns for defense. Growth involves multiple molts.
Pupal As a pupa, oak eggar undergoes transformation inside a cocoon, becoming inactive. The body is enclosed and reorganizing internally. This stage shows little to no movement.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult oak eggar's development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction.
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Adult Size of Oak eggar
4.5 - 8 cm
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Predators of Oak eggar Larvae
Birds, rodents, ichneumonid wasps, tachinid flies, ants
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Predators of Adult Oak eggar
Bats, birds, rodents
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Interesting Facts About Oak eggar
Despite its name, oak eggar caterpillars can eat an array of plants, not just oak, showcasing a diverse diet often unexpected in specialized species.
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Scientific Classification of Oak eggar
Tips for Finding Oak eggar
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Youth Habitat of Oak eggar
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies
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Habitat Preferences of Oak eggar Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of oak eggar are typically laid on the twigs and branches of host trees, particularly oaks. As caterpillars, they are primarily found on the leaves of such trees, where they feed and grow. When searching for the caterpillars, inspect the undersides of leaves for their presence. Once matured, they spin a cocoon in a sheltered location, like the crevices of bark or dense foliage. To find these cocoons, one could look closely at tree trunks or in shrubs at the edge of woodland areas. The adults, being moths, are nocturnal and are attracted to light, so they are best searched for at night using light traps near wooded areas.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Oak eggar
The best time to look for oak eggar would be during their active periods at night for adults, and daytime for larvae when they are feeding.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Oak eggar
Warm, humid nights are more suitable for finding adult oak eggar, while larvae can be sought after in dry, warm conditions when host plants are abundant.
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How and Where Can You Find Oak eggar at Different Life Stages
Egg Eggs of oak eggar are often laid in clusters on the underside of host plant leaves. Search for small, round eggs on plants like oak, hawthorn, and birch.
Larva Oak eggar larvae are very distinctive with their hairy bodies. Look for them on the leaves of host plants during the day when they are most active and feeding.
Pupal Oak eggar pupae may be found in loose cocoons amongst leaf litter or in the crevices of the host plants during their pupal stage. Inspect leaf litter and bark crevices on or near host plants.
Adult Adult oak eggar are moths that can be observed at night. Use light traps or bait stations with sugary substances to attract the adult moths for observation or collection.
Are Oak eggar harmful?
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The oak eggar has special defensive behaviors that can trigger an allergic reaction. If there are serious reactions, seek IMMEDIATE medical attention.

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Are Oak eggar harmful to humans?

Most of the larvae of the leaf moth family are poisonous bristles, which will release an irritating liquid when broken. If they are stabbed by these burrs, they will immediately produce tingling and burning sensations, and may also cause nausea and vomiting. In severe cases, the numbness and swelling that accompanies it may extend to the entire arm, leg, or other area.
Harmful Effects of Oak eggar
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Allergenic
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Does the Oak eggar cause allergies?

Contact with the hairs of oak eggar's larvae can cause mild allergic reactions in a small number of people. Common symptoms may include skin irritation and respiratory discomfort. The risk varies among individuals and those with sensitivities should limit exposure to minimize reactions. The degree of risk is generally low, but caution is advised.

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Hurt Plant

Oak eggar impacts host plants at larval stage by chewing on leaves, which can result in defoliation. Depending on their number, the severity of damage can range from mild to severe, potentially leading to reduced photosynthesis and growth.

More Effects of Oak eggar

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