Cunning Forester
Common NameCunning Forester
Scientific NameAlypia octomaculata
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyAgaristinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblack, yellow, orange
HabitatOpen woodlands, gardens, parks, forest edges
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host Plantsgrape, Virginia creeper
Flight PeriodApril to July
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are black and white striped with orange spots, feeding on grape and Virginia creeper. They pupate in a cocoon underground.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive pattern of eight yellow or white spots on its black wings (four on each forewing, two on each hindwing) and its orange leg tufts. It is active during the day.
Description
A diurnal moth with velvety black wings, each forewing bearing two prominent yellow or white spots and each hindwing bearing one, often with orange tufts on its legs and abdomen.
