Thaumetopoeidae

Thaumetopoeidae is a family of moths belonging to the superfamily Bombycoidea. The family is native to the Old World, with species found in Africa, Asia, and Europe. The family includes about 100 species, which are distributed across various genera. The most well-known genus is Thaumetopoea, which includes species such as the silkworm moth (Thaumetopoea pityocampa) and the oak silkmoth (Thaumetopoea processionea). These moths are notable for their distinctive life cycle, which includes a unique behavior where the larvae, known as oak silkworms, spin silken threads to create protective shelters and to move around. The adult moths are typically large and have long, slender bodies, with wings that are often patterned with dark and light colors. The family is of interest to both entomologists and those involved in silk production, as the silkworms produce a type of silk that is used in the production of traditional silks.