Dilecta Tiger Moth
Common NameDilecta Tiger Moth
Scientific NameArachnis dilecta
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)45
Primary Colorsbrown, white, red
HabitatOpen woodlands, scrublands, grasslands
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America (Mexico to Bolivia)
Host Plantsvarious herbaceous plants and shrubs
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, or warmer months in subtropical areas
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae are typically hairy (woolly bears) and polyphagous, pupating in a cocoon often incorporating larval hairs.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its unique brown and white mottled forewing pattern and the prominent red band on the prothorax, which contrasts with the white and brown head and thorax.
Description
A medium-sized moth with striking brown forewings patterned with irregular white blotches. It features a white and brown head/thorax with a prominent red band on the prothorax.
