Hebe Tiger Moth
Common NameHebe Tiger Moth
Scientific NameArctia festiva
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)55
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorspink, black, red
HabitatOpen woodlands, heathlands, grasslands, gardens
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe, parts of Asia
Host Plantsdandelion, plantain, nettle, bramble, willow
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae, known as 'woolly bears,' are very hairy and polyphagous, feeding on a wide range of herbaceous plants. They typically overwinter as larvae and pupate in the spring, emerging as adults in early summer.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the unique irregular black blotches on the pale forewings, the reddish-orange abdomen visible between the wings, and often red hindwings with black spots (though not fully visible in this dorsal view).
Description
This medium-sized moth features forewings with a striking pattern of irregular black blotches on a pale pinkish-cream background. Its robust body has a black head and thorax, and a prominent reddish-orange abdomen often marked with black.
