Spindle Ermine Moth Larvae (Yponomeuta cagnagella)

The image features larvae of the Spindle Ermine moth (Yponomeuta cagnagella), also known as kardinaalsmutsstippelmot in the Netherlands. These caterpillars are easily identified by their pale yellow to greenish-gray bodies adorned with distinct black spots and a black head. They are commonly found in the late spring and early summer, typically congregating in large groups within protective silken webs.

These larvae are native to Europe and are frequently observed in gardens and parks across the Netherlands, particularly on their primary host plant, the European Spindle (Euonymus europaeus). While they can defoliate entire bushes, the plants usually recover and produce new leaves by later in the summer. They are not considered a commercial product but are a common part of the local ecosystem. As a biological entity, they have no corporate owner or manufacturing origin in the traditional commercial sense.