Bolter's Euchaetes
Common NameBolter's Euchaetes
Scientific NameEuchaetes bolteri
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)32
Primary Colorsblack, white, red
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeSouthern United States (Texas, Arizona, New Mexico) and Mexico
Host Plantsdogbane, milkweed
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy 'woolly bear' caterpillars, typically dark with some lighter bands, and feed on dogbane and milkweed. They pupate in a cocoon.
Identification TipsLook for the distinct bicolored pattern of dark forewings and white hindwings, combined with a white abdomen and a reddish-orange collar. Its range in the southern US and Mexico is also a key identifier.
Description
This moth has striking dark brown to black forewings that contrast sharply with its white hindwings and abdomen. A distinctive reddish-orange collar is often visible behind the head.
