Eriogaster lanestris

Small Eggar, a reference photo
Photo: User:MarkusHagenlocher · CC BY-SA 3.0 (licence)

Eriogaster lanestris, commonly known as the small eggar, is a moth of the family Lasiocampidae that is found across the Palearctic. Unlike many other members of the Lasiocampidae, the small eggar is a social insect. Historically, only eusocial insects like ants, bees, and termites were thought to exhibit complex social organization and communication systems. However, research since the late 20th century has found that E. lanestris, among a number of other phylogenetically related moth and butterfly species, demonstrates social behaviors as well.

From Wikipedia, under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Is it venomous or poisonous?

We have no record of Small Eggar being toxic, poisonous or venomous. That is not proof that it is safe. Never eat, touch or handle a wild plant, mushroom or animal on the strength of an identification; ask someone qualified.

Easily confused with

Classification

Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Arthropoda
Class
Insecta
Order
Lepidoptera
Family
Lasiocampidae
Species
Eriogaster lanestris

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