The Gypsy Moth male, above, looks a little like a combination of dark and black arches (it is related to the latter).
Wingspan is some 40-48mm; UK flight time May-Sep. The female has a white background colour, wingspan 62-70mm and, for the European subspecies,
doesn't generally fly. Many thanks to Martin Starnes for the above photos from Surrey.
The Gypsy Moth was a resident breeder in East Anglia, UK, until around 1900 when it was no longer apparent.
By the late 1990s, it re-appeared in southern England, probably from imported wood or plants from continental Europe, and is increasing its
range. The dark form above was in NW London.
This one has lost most of his scales.
The feathered antennae.
The attractive caterpillars are serious pests to trees and their hair and webs can cause rashes.
Thanks to Martin Starnes for the caterpillar photos.
The above is a Gypsy Moth pupa with remains of caterpillar skin; photo also from Martin Starnes.