Vapourer Moth Orgyia antiqua

Vapourer moth male
Vapourer moth male
Vapourer moth male
The Vapourer moth is native to much of Europe. The male has wings and feathered antennae so he can find the wingless female who stays near her pupal cocoon most of her adult life.
Vapourer moth male The "eyes" are to scare predators.
Vapourer moth male Wingspan 25-35mm; UK flight time Jul-Sep.
Vapourer moth male He can be seen flying day or night (the latter visiting light).
VAPOURER CATERPILLAR
Vapourer Caterpillar
Vapourer Caterpillar
The tussocked caterpillar reaches 30-40mm long and eats leaves of various deciduous trees and shrubs.
Vapourer Caterpillar
Vapourer Caterpillar
Vapourer Caterpillar
Those in my garden seem to like roses and bergenia. The red spots warn that the hairs can irritate and the caterpillar can be mildly toxic.