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Bordered browntail moth facts for kids

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Bordered browntail moth
Urocoma limbalis1.jpg
Urocoma limbalis2.jpg
Scientific classification
Genus:
Euproctis
Species:
limbalis
Synonyms
  • Porthesia limbalis Herrich-Schäffer, 1855
  • Urocoma limbalis
  • Urocoma boeckeae Herrich-Schäffer, 1858
  • Ela leucophaea Walker, 1862

The bordered browntail moth, also known as Euproctis limbalis, is a type of moth. It was first officially described by a scientist named Gottlieb August Wilhelm Herrich-Schäffer in 1855. You can find this moth in Australia, especially in areas like Queensland and New South Wales.

About the Bordered Browntail Moth

This moth is quite interesting! When its wings are spread out, they measure about 40 millimeters across. That's roughly the width of a golf ball.

What Does It Look Like?

Adult bordered browntail moths have a dark brown body. Their wings are also brown, but they have a special feature: a clear band of white color along their edges. This white border is how the moth gets its name!

Caterpillar Habits

The young moths, called caterpillars, are known for eating certain plants. They have been seen feeding on the leaves and seed heads of sorghum and other types of millets. These plants are important crops in many parts of the world.

Important Safety Information

It's good to know that the tiny hairs found on the caterpillars and their cocoons (the silky cases they make before turning into moths) can sometimes cause skin irritation. This irritation can range from mild to more noticeable. It's always best to avoid touching caterpillars or cocoons you don't recognize, just to be safe!

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