Fox Moth
ExploreInsects
Fox Moth
Macrothylacia rubi
The Fox Moth is a fluffy, brown moth that looks like a little furry creature! It has big, soft wings and loves to fly around at night, making it a special sight in the dark.
Habitat: Gardens and fields
Appearance
The Fox Moth is a medium-sized moth with a robust, very furry body and broad wings. Males are typically reddish-brown, while females are paler yellowish-brown, both featuring two pale lines across their forewings. Its dense hair and distinctive 'fox' colours help it stand out from similar grassland moths.
KingdomAnimaliaPhylumArthropodaClassInsectaOrderLepidopteraFamilyLasiocampidaeGenusMacrothylacia
Category
InsectsRarity
Common
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
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Interesting facts
Adult Fox Moths don't eat anything at all, surviving only on energy they stored as a hungry caterpillar!
Fox Moth caterpillars are famously called "woolly bears" because they are covered in long, fuzzy, bear-like hairs!
If a caterpillar gets too cold, it can actually freeze solid and then magically thaw out and wake up later!
Unlike most moths, male Fox Moths fly actively during the daytime to find mates, rather than only at night!
Special abilities
Ability
Prickly Protection
Fox Moth caterpillars have spiny hairs that can irritate predators, helping them stay safe from hungry birds.
Ability
Leafy Disguise
The Fox Moth has dull brown wings that help it camouflage perfectly against dry leaves and grass, hiding from dangers.
Ability
Winter Nap
Fox Moth caterpillars can survive freezing winters by hibernating, helping them emerge strong in spring to continue growing.
Measurements & details
- Wingspan
- 35-65 mm
- Size
- 30-40 mm
- Lifespan
- 7-14 days
- Leg Count
- 6
Diet & Feeding
Adult Fox Moths don't eat, but their caterpillars are munching machines, feasting on leaves and plants!
Age differences: Adult moths do not feed, relying solely on energy reserves built up as caterpillars.
Primary Foods
- Heather
- Bramble
- Dandelion
- Plantain
- Willow
Foraging Method
- Foraging
Ecological connections
eaten by
European Robin
Erithacus rubecula
Birds eat caterpillars.
eaten by
Common Shrew
Sorex araneus
Shrews prey on caterpillars.
parasitizes
Tachinid Fly
Exorista larvarum
Lays eggs on caterpillars.
depends on
Heather
Calluna vulgaris
Caterpillars feed on leaves.
Traits
Furry
Furry describes animals possessing a dense covering of soft hair or fur.
Solitary
Solitary animals live alone for most of their lives, only interacting with others for mating or parental care.
Herbivorous
This trait characterizes organisms whose diet consists entirely or primarily of plant material.
Pollinator Magnet
Describes plants that are particularly attractive and beneficial to a wide range of pollinating organisms.
Nocturnal
Nocturnal animals are primarily active during the nighttime hours, typically resting or sleeping during the day.
Pollinator
Describes organisms that transfer pollen, enabling the fertilization and reproduction of plants.
Also known as
No aliases listed yet.
Collections
Safety
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Moths are usually safe to watch, but it's best not to touch them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Fox Moth's wingspan?
35-65 mm
How big is Fox Moth?
30-40 mm
How long does Fox Moth live?
7-14 days
What does Fox Moth eat?
Adult Fox Moths don't eat, but their caterpillars are munching machines, feasting on leaves and plants!
Where is Fox Moth usually found?
Gardens and fields
How does Fox Moth hunt?
Foraging
How many legs does Fox Moth have?
6
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