Dubious Tiger Moth
Common NameDubious Tiger Moth
Scientific NameSpilosoma lubricipeda
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorswhite, black, yellow, orange
HabitatMeadows, gardens, hedgerows, woodland edges, parks
Geographic RangeEurope, temperate Asia, parts of North Africa
Host Plantsdandelion, plantain, nettle, dock, bramble, willow
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae, known as 'woolly bears', are very hairy and dark, feeding on a wide range of herbaceous plants. They overwinter as pupae in a cocoon.
Identification TipsLook for the pure white wings with small black spots, the furry white thorax, and the striking yellow-orange abdomen with a dorsal line of black spots. Males have feathery antennae.
Description
A medium-sized moth with fluffy white body and wings, adorned with small, scattered black spots. Its abdomen is distinctly yellow-orange with a row of black spots along the dorsal side.
