Banded Tiger Moth
Common NameBanded Tiger Moth
Scientific NameEuplagia quadripunctaria
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)50
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsblack, yellow, red
HabitatOpen woodlands, meadows, gardens, scrubland, often near water
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, Western Asia
Host Plantsstinging nettle, borage, comfrey, plantain, dandelion
Flight PeriodJuly to September
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy and dark, overwintering before pupating in spring. Adults emerge in summer and are often seen flying in sunshine.
Identification TipsEasily identified by the unique pattern of black forewings with creamy-yellow stripes and the contrasting bright red-orange hindwings with black spots, visible when the moth is at rest or in flight.
Description
A striking day-flying moth with black forewings adorned with bold, creamy-yellow bands, and bright reddish-orange hindwings featuring prominent black spots. Its body is distinctly striped yellow and black.
