The adult urticating anthelid moth is varies in colour from grey brown to orange brown. It has pattern of wavy lines parallel to the outer edge of the forewings and hindwings. There are two small black-bordered white spots on each forewing. The male moth has more feathery antennae than the female. The caterpillar is brown and hairy with sharp, brittle hairs that can penetrate skin and break off and can cause skin rash (urticaria). The cocoon is brown and can also cause skin irritation as some of the caterpillar hairs can project through the cocoon surface.