Nevada Tiger Moth
Common NameNevada Tiger Moth
Scientific NameArctia caja
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)60
Primary Colorscream, black, orange-red
HabitatGardens, woodlands, hedgerows, heathland, open country
Geographic RangeWidespread across the Palearctic and Nearctic regions (Europe, Asia, North America)
Host Plantsdandelion, plantain, nettle, dock, willow, birch
Flight PeriodJune to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe caterpillar, known as a 'woolly bear,' is densely covered in long, dark hairs. It overwinters as a larva and pupates in a loose cocoon among leaf litter.
Identification TipsThe unique combination of cream/black patterned forewings and orange-red/black spotted hindwings is highly distinctive. When disturbed, it flashes its brightly colored hindwings as a warning.
Description
A large, robust moth with striking cream and black patterned forewings, and bright orange-red hindwings adorned with large, irregular black spots. Its body is hairy, with a black thorax and an orange-red abdomen marked with black bands.
