puss moth

British  

noun

1. a large pale prominent moth, Cerura vinula, whose larvae feed on willow and poplar, and are bright green with a masklike red head and claspers modified as "tails" that are protruded and raised in a state of alarm: family Notodontidae

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Example Sentences

A puss moth caterpillar, for example, can fire formic acid from its two flagella when threatened, and a domestic cat will hiss, arch its back, and bare its teeth to warn intruders.

From National Geographic • Jun. 8, 2018

For me, the prize goes to the caterpillar of the puss moth which, when alarmed, puts on a face with a bright red-rimmed gaping mouth and dark eyespots.

From The Guardian • Mar. 16, 2011

Called the puss moth caterpillar, this species has hollow spines through which it secretes venom and is one of the most venomous caterpillars in the U.S.

From National Geographic