Ornate Tiger Moth
Common NameOrnate Tiger Moth
Scientific NameApantesis ornate
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorscream, black, orange
HabitatOpen woodlands, grasslands, fields, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeWestern and Southwestern United States, Mexico
Host Plantsdandelion, plantain, alfalfa, various herbaceous plants
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLike other tiger moths, it undergoes complete metamorphosis. The larvae are typically hairy 'woolly bear' caterpillars, feeding on a variety of low-growing plants before pupating in a cocoon.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive cream and black reticulated pattern on the forewings combined with the bright orange hindwings marked with black spots. The fuzzy, striped body is also a key feature.
Description
This moth features cream-colored forewings with a striking black reticulated pattern, while the hindwings are bright orange with several prominent black spots. Its body is fuzzy, striped with black and orange/yellow.
