Ornate Bella Moth
Common NameOrnate Bella Moth
Scientific NameUtetheisa ornatrix
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, white, black
HabitatOpen fields, coastal dunes, disturbed areas, gardens
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States, Caribbean, Central America, South America
Host PlantsCrotalaria spp. (rattlebox)
Flight PeriodMultiple broods year-round in warmer climates; May to October in temperate regions
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae, known as rattlebox caterpillars, feed on *Crotalaria* species, sequestering pyrrolizidine alkaloids for defense. They pupate in a silken cocoon, often on or near the host plant.
Identification TipsEasily identified by its distinctive orange, white, and black patterned forewings. The hindwings, though not visible here, are typically white with a black border. Its presence is often associated with *Crotalaria* host plants.
Description
This moth displays vibrant orange forewings intricately patterned with irregular white bands and prominent black spots. Its head and thorax are white with black spots, and it possesses long, slender antennae.
