black-and-white tiger moth
Common Nameblack-and-white tiger moth
Scientific NameGrammia virgo
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)45
Primary Colorswhite, black, orange
HabitatOpen woodlands, meadows, fields, gardens
Geographic RangeNorth America (southern Canada to central United States)
Host Plantsplantain, dandelion, clover, various herbaceous plants
Flight PeriodMay to September
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy 'woolly bears' and are generalist feeders. They typically overwinter as larvae and pupate in the spring.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinctive intricate black and white pattern on the forewings, a fuzzy body, and often a reddish-brown stripe on the thorax. Hindwings, though not visible dorsally, are typically orange or yellow with black spots.
Description
A medium-sized moth with a fuzzy white body and wings, featuring intricate black markings that form a striking pattern. The thorax often displays a reddish-brown stripe.
