Zebra Ermine
Common NameZebra Ermine
Scientific NameSpilosoma latipennis
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorsbrown, white, black
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, meadows, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada south to Florida and west to Texas and Kansas
Host Plantsdandelion, plantain, clover
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are 'woolly bear' caterpillars, typically dark and densely hairy. They feed on various herbaceous plants, overwinter as larvae, and pupate in a cocoon in the spring.
Identification TipsThe distinctive dark brown/black forewings with bold, irregular white markings are key for identification. The hairy, striped body and feathery antennae are also characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized moth with striking dark brown to black forewings featuring irregular white bands and spots. Its body is robust and hairy, with a striped thorax and abdomen.
