Text and photos Aare Lindt, www.loodusmuuseum.ee
Translation Liis
Nut tree tussock
Nut tree tussock Sarapuuöölane Colocasia coryli
The nut tree tussock occurs in all Estonia and is quite common.
The moths fly in May-June, in broadleaf and mixed forests, as well as in parks and gardens. In a favourable year a few second generation specimens can be seen in August.
In May the nut tree tussock is easily recognizable. In June however the wing pattern and colour of the moths may be so worn that even a specialist has difficulties in identifying them.
The moths are easily drawn to a lamp light and they may sometimes be seen sleeping in the morning there.
The caterpillars mainly feed on birch, also other broadleaf trees and shrubs. They winter as pupas.
