Brown Tail Moth and Brown Tail Moth Caterpillars can be found in many trees and hedgerows. Larvae of this moth carry minute hairs which can cause serious skin and eye irritations.

The Brown Tail Moth Caterpillar is blackish grey in colour with tufts of ginger brown hairs. The most noticeable feature is the two orange spots near the tail.

Over the last few years the numbers of these moths has increased greatly specially in the southern parts of the U.K. They can defoliate large trees if they become established in large numbers. As said before they can also cause considerable irritations to the skin and eyes if touched, this may develop into a rash; if this becomes severe you should consult a doctor.

Brown Tail Moth control is needed all year round, though the Brown Tail Moth is a particular problem in May and June when the caterpillars emerge during warm weather and can become a nuisance.

To read more about Brown Tail Moths and other textile pests click here