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White ermine

White ermine

Spilosoma lubricipeda

A species of Spilosoma

With its bright white and black-spotted wings, the white ermine moth perhaps gets its name from the small mammals called ermines, which turn a vibrant white in the winter. This lovely insect is a delight to spot in the wild and can be found in many habitats all around the world.

Does the White ermine cause allergies?
Allergenic
General Info About White ermine
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Attributes of White ermine
Colors
Black
White
Habitat
garden; hedgerow; grassland; heathland; moorland; woodland
Larva Food Source
Leaves of a variety of herbaceous plants, nettles, dandelions, dock, plantain
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
The White ermine 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 White ermine 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 White ermine
It is found throughout the temperate belt of Eurasia from Europe through Kazakhstan and southern Siberia to Amur Region, China, Korea and Japan.
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Distribution Area of White ermine
Throughout the temperate belt of Eurasia
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Appearance of White ermine
The wingspan is 3.5 - 5 cm. Wing pattern is very variable, from entirely white wings to strongly covered with black dots. Milky white, abdomen orange with black dorsal dots. Egg is light yellow. Larva is lilac-brown with deep dark brown hair and orange-yellow dorsal stripe.
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How to Identify White ermine?

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Life Cycle of White ermine
Egg At the egg stage, the embryo of white ermine develops. The eggs are typically laid on host plants and are small, oval, and often inconspicuous. They hatch into larvae after a period of time, varying with temperature and species.
Larva The larval stage of white ermine is characterized by a worm-like appearance, with a primary focus on feeding and growth. They molt several times, increasing in size with each molt. Larval patterning can vary but often includes conspicuous colors to deter predators.
Pupal During the pupal stage, white ermine undergoes a significant transformation inside a cocoon. This immobile stage is where tissues and organs are reorganized into the adult form. The color and texture of the cocoon blend with the surroundings for camouflage.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult white ermine'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 and, for some, on feeding.
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Adult Size of White ermine
3.5 - 5 cm
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Predators of White ermine Larvae
Birds, rodents, wasps, beetles, arachnids
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Predators of Adult White ermine
Bats, spiders, birds, rodents
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Interesting Facts About White ermine
White ermine can detoxify the chemicals of the plants they consume, making them immune to certain toxins that are harmful to other species.
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Scientific Classification of White ermine
Tips for Finding White ermine
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Youth Habitat of White ermine
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Adult Habitat of White ermine
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Urban and Suburban Areas
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Habitat Preferences of White ermine Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of white ermine are typically laid on the underside of leaves of a host plant. During the larval phase, white ermine caterpillars are found on various herbaceous plants, where they feed on foliage. To spot these caterpillars, search low-lying plants and shrubs. Pupation mostly occurs in loose cocoons in leaf litter on the ground or just below the surface. Therefore, inspecting detritus and soil near the food plants can lead to finding pupae. Adults are usually nocturnal and are often attracted to lights, so a good strategy to observe them is setting up light traps or visiting illuminated areas during nighttime.
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When is the Best Time to Observe White ermine
The best time to find white ermine is usually during the night or early morning hours for adults, while larvae can be found during the daytime.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe White ermine
White ermine are more active and easier to find in mild to warm weather conditions, but not in heavy rain or extreme temperatures.
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How and Where Can You Find White ermine at Different Life Stages
Egg White ermine eggs are often laid on the undersides of host plant leaves. Search for tiny, spherical or oval eggs on plants that caterpillars feed on.
Larva White ermine larvae are caterpillars which can be located by looking for chewed foliage on host plants. They are also easier to spot after rain when they come out to feed.
Pupal To find white ermine in the pupal stage, search for cocoons that are attached to twigs, leaves, or other structures near the ground.
Adult Adult white ermine are moths that can be found by setting up a light trap at night, as they are attracted to light sources. Alternatively, they can be observed visiting flowers or feeding on fermenting fruits during dusk or dawn.
Are White ermine harmful?
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Harmful Effects of White ermine
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Allergenic
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Does the White ermine cause allergies?

Contact with white ermine at its larval stage can cause mild allergies in a small number of people due to its hair. These allergies can manifest as skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Risk is generally low; however, those with known sensitivities should avoid handling the larvae to prevent allergic reactions.

More Effects of White ermine

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