Large Ruby Tiger Moth
Common NameLarge Ruby Tiger Moth
Scientific NamePhragmatobia fuliginosa
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)42.5
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsreddish-brown, dark brown, red
HabitatOpen woodlands, heathland, moorland, grasslands, fens, gardens
Geographic RangePalearctic region (Europe, Asia), parts of North America
Host Plantsdandelion, plantain, dock, heather, bramble, willow
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are distinctive 'woolly bear' caterpillars, dark with reddish hairs, which overwinter before pupating in spring.
Identification TipsKey features include the plain reddish-brown forewings with a single black discal spot, a very furry dark body, and typically ruby-red hindwings (often hidden at rest) with black markings.
Description
This is a medium-sized, very furry moth with uniform reddish-brown forewings, each bearing a small, subtle black discal spot. Its body is dark brown and densely hairy, and its legs are reddish.
