Red Costate Tiger Moth
Common NameRed Costate Tiger Moth
Scientific NamePagara costalis
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyLithosiinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorswhite, red, orange, black
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, areas with abundant lichens and algae
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia south to Florida, west to Texas and Manitoba
Host Plantslichens, algae
Flight PeriodMay to September (often two broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically dark and hairy, feeding on lichens and algae found on trees and rocks. They pupate in a cocoon, often incorporating larval hairs for camouflage and protection.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the stark white forewings with their contrasting red or orange costal margin, the presence of small black dots on the forewings, and the conspicuously banded orange and black abdomen.
Description
A small moth characterized by its bright white forewings, each featuring a prominent red or orange leading edge and a few small black dots. Its abdomen is distinctly banded with orange and black.
