Police Car Moth
Common NamePolice Car Moth
Scientific NameAmata nigriceps
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblack, white, blue, yellow
HabitatOpen woodlands, grasslands, gardens, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeSoutheast Asia (e.g., India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia)
Host Plantsvarious herbaceous plants, grasses
Flight PeriodThroughout the year in tropical regions, with peak activity during warmer months
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; eggs hatch into hairy caterpillars that feed on herbaceous plants, then pupate before emerging as adult moths.
Identification TipsKey features include the black and white spotted wings, the iridescent blue abdomen, and the yellow neck collar. It is often mistaken for a wasp due to its coloration and diurnal flight.
Description
This is a medium-sized, day-flying moth with a striking black body and wings adorned with translucent white patches. It features a metallic blue abdomen and a bright yellow collar behind its head.
