top of page

NOLIDAE

(Tuft Moths)

They are mostly small with dull coloration, the main distinguishing feature being a silk cocoon with a vertical exit slit. The group is sometimes known as tuft moths after the tufts of raised scales on the forewings of two subfamilies, Nolinae and Collomeninae. Their caterpillars developed a very unique way of hiding from enemies. This species of caterpillar grows an enlarged, green coloured, section of abdomen which overlaps its actual head. It is thought this acts as a deterrent to birds by resembling unripe berries.

Wingspan: 15-40 mm

bottom of page