Little Virgin Tiger Moth
Common NameLittle Virgin Tiger Moth
Scientific NameGrammia virguncula
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsblack, orange, cream
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, meadows, bogs
Geographic RangeEastern and central North America, from Newfoundland west to Manitoba and south to North Carolina and Missouri
Host Plantsdandelion, plantain, clover, various low-growing herbaceous plants
Flight PeriodMay to August
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are 'woolly bear' caterpillars, typically dark and hairy, feeding on a variety of low-growing herbaceous plants. They overwinter as larvae and pupate in the spring.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the specific network pattern of cream stripes on the black forewings and the extent and shape of the black spotting on the orange hindwings, which helps differentiate it from other similar *Grammia* species.
Description
This moth features striking black forewings intricately patterned with cream or pale yellow stripes, creating a net-like appearance. Its hindwings are a vibrant orange adorned with irregular black spots, and its body is similarly striped black and cream on the thorax with an orange, black-spotted abdomen.
