Orange Tricolour Tiger Moth
Common NameOrange Tricolour Tiger Moth
Scientific NameSpilosoma tricolor
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)45
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorswhite, yellow, red, black
HabitatForests, woodlands, and areas with herbaceous vegetation
Geographic RangeIndia, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, China
Host Plantsvarious herbaceous plants and shrubs
Flight PeriodWarmer months (spring to autumn), possibly multiple broods
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLike most moths, it undergoes complete metamorphosis, progressing through egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa, and adult stages. The larvae are typically hairy and pupate in a cocoon.
Identification TipsLook for the striking tricolor combination of white forewings, yellow hindwings, and a bright red abdomen. The black spotting on the wings and abdomen, along with the yellow-striped white thorax, are key identifiers.
Description
A medium-sized moth featuring white forewings speckled with small black spots, yellow hindwings each with a distinct central black spot, and a vibrant red abdomen marked with a dorsal row of black spots. The thorax is white with two prominent yellow longitudinal stripes.
