Yellow Tiger Moth
Common NameYellow Tiger Moth
Scientific NameSpilosoma virginica
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)38
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsyellow, reddish-brown, black
HabitatGardens, fields, meadows, open woodlands, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeNorth America (southern Canada to Mexico)
Host Plantsplantain, dandelion, clover, sunflower, corn, cabbage
Flight PeriodApril to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in clusters. Larvae are known as 'woollybear' caterpillars, densely covered in long hairs, and are polyphagous. They pupate in a cocoon often incorporating their hairs, with multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsLook for the bright yellow wings with reddish-brown spots and the black spots on the yellow thorax. The antennae are simple and thread-like. The larvae are the distinctive 'woollybear' caterpillars.
Description
A medium-sized moth with bright yellow wings adorned with scattered reddish-brown spots, a furry yellow body, and distinct black spots on the thorax.
