Wandering Tiger Moth
Common NameWandering Tiger Moth
Scientific NameSpilosoma vagans
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)38
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorslight brown, tan, gray
HabitatForests, woodlands, open areas, gardens, disturbed sites
Geographic RangeWestern North America (Alaska to California, east to Rocky Mountains)
Host Plantswillow, alder, currant, dandelion, plantain
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in clusters, hatching into hairy caterpillars that feed on various plants. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon, often incorporating larval hairs, and the moth typically overwinters as a pupa.
Identification TipsKey features include its relatively plain, unmarked forewings, fuzzy pale body, and feathery antennae (more prominent in males), distinguishing it from other patterned tiger moths.
Description
A medium-sized, fuzzy moth with plain, light brown to grayish-brown forewings and a pale, hairy body. Its antennae are feathery, particularly in males.
