Common name : Unicorn caterpillar
Scientific name : Schizura unicornis
Family : Notodontidae
Native to : North America
Interesting fact : A unique feature of this moth is that it can eject a stream of formic acid from a gland in its hump, which can shoot upwards several inches high.
The moth of this species has a wingspan of 24-35 mm and is greyish with rose, yellow and brown colouring. The larva has a single pointy ‘horn like’ protrusion from the top of the first abdominal segment. The moths can be found in deciduous woody areas and shrub lands. The larvae feed on various plants, including apple, white birch, hawthorn, willow, hickory, etc.
