Plain-winged Virbia Moth
Common NamePlain-winged Virbia Moth
Scientific NameVirbia aurantiaca
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Primary Colorsorange, brown
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, meadows, and disturbed areas.
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to Florida and west to Texas.
Host Plantsdandelion, plantain, other herbaceous plants
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy 'woolly bears' that feed on low-growing herbaceous plants and overwinter before pupating in a cocoon.
Identification TipsKey features include the combination of plain reddish-brown forewings (sometimes with faint dark markings) and vibrant orange hindwings and abdomen. The forewings lack strong patterns found in some related species.
Description
This small moth features reddish-brown forewings, often with subtle darker smudges, and contrasting bright orange hindwings and abdomen.
