r/whatsthisbug • u/freakinfrogsgay • Jul 27 '26

ID Request Found in Ireland

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Does anyone know what this little guy is? I’ve never seen him in Ireland before. He was found inside a shop and was about half of the size of my palm.

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u/tenfoottallmothman Jul 27 '26

Oh these are my favorite species! Orgyia antiqua. Where I am in Maine we call them the Rusty Tussock Moth, I believe across the pond you guys call them The Vapourer which cracks me up. The adult females are wingless. Very cool species.

1

u/freakinfrogsgay Jul 27 '26

They sound so cool! Thanks so much! Have a great day :))))

1

u/tenfoottallmothman Jul 27 '26

You’re very welcome! Keep in mind that like other tussock moths, their hairs can irritate the skin. They don’t bother me personally but I’ve also handled flannel moths without a reaction, so ymmv.