Wittfeld's Forester
Common NameWittfeld's Forester
Scientific NameAlypia wittfeldii
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAgaristinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblack, yellow, white, orange
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, gardens, and areas with host plants.
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States, primarily Florida.
Host PlantsGrape (Vitis spp.), Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia)
Flight PeriodMarch to May (primarily spring)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically striped and feed on grape and Virginia creeper leaves. They pupate in the soil, and adults emerge in the spring.
Identification TipsLook for its unique black, yellow, and white spotted wing pattern, especially the two yellow spots on the forewings and two white spots on the hindwings. The orange tufts on the legs and antennae bases are also key identifiers. It is active during the day.
Description
A striking day-flying moth with velvety black wings, featuring two large yellow spots on each forewing and two prominent white spots on each hindwing. Its body is black with yellow markings, and it has distinctive orange tufts on its legs and at the base of its antennae.
