Many-spotted Tiger Moth
Common NameMany-spotted Tiger Moth
Scientific NameHypercompe permaculata
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)50
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorswhite, black
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, gardens, suburban areas
Geographic RangeSouthwestern United States, Mexico
Host Plantsplantain, dandelion, sunflower, willow, mesquite, cotton, alfalfa
Flight PeriodApril to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants, developing into hairy 'woolly bear' caterpillars that are polyphagous. Larvae pupate in a cocoon, emerging as nocturnal adults.
Identification TipsKey features include the prominent white and black spotted pattern on both wings and body, and the distinct black and white/yellow banding on the abdomen. It can be differentiated from similar *Hypercompe* species by the specific arrangement and density of its spots.
Description
A medium-sized moth with striking white wings heavily marked with numerous irregular black spots. Its body is white with black markings, and the abdomen often displays black and white or black and yellow banding.
