African False Tiger
Common NameAfrican False Tiger
Scientific NameAmata alicia
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblack, yellow, red, white
HabitatOpen woodlands, savannas, grasslands, gardens
Geographic RangeSouthern Africa (e.g., South Africa, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Botswana, Namibia)
Host Plantsvarious herbaceous plants, grasses, Commelina species
Flight PeriodYear-round in warmer regions, more common in summer and autumn
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy caterpillars that feed on various low-growing plants. They pupate in a silken cocoon, often incorporating their body hairs for protection.
Identification TipsKey features include the black and yellow spotted wings, the prominent red streak on the forewing, and the small white tip on the hindwing. The black body with yellow bands is also characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized moth with glossy black wings adorned with numerous bright yellow spots. A distinctive red streak runs along the inner margin of the forewing, and the hindwings have a small white tip.
