Orange Beggar
Common NameOrange Beggar
Scientific NameEubaphe unicolor
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorsorange
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, and areas rich in lichens and mosses
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantslichens, mosses, algae
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are dark, hairy caterpillars that feed primarily on lichens and mosses. They pupate in a loose cocoon, often among leaf litter.
Identification TipsKey identification features include its entirely orange body and wings, small size, and prominent, often iridescent blue eyes, which are visible even in photographs.
Description
A small, uniformly bright orange moth characterized by its unpatterned wings, slender antennae, and distinctive blue eyes.
