Hulst's Tiger Moth
Common NameHulst's Tiger Moth
Scientific NameApantesis ursina
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorscream, black, orange
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, meadows, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeEastern and Central North America
Host Plantsdandelion, plantain, clover, dock, aster, goldenrod
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy 'woolly bears' that feed on various herbaceous plants and overwinter before pupating in the spring.
Identification TipsKey features include the cream and black reticulated forewings and the contrasting bright orange-red hindwings with distinct black spots. The pattern on the forewings can vary but typically maintains a net-like appearance.
Description
A medium-sized moth with cream-colored forewings heavily marked with irregular black bands and spots, giving a reticulated appearance. The hindwings are bright orange-red with several prominent black spots, and the body is black and orange-red.
