This Apantesis Tiger Moth has a wingspan of about 1 5/8 inches. The forewing is black with varying patterns of wide tan to white lines. The hindwing has a yellow to reddish wash with a broken terminal band of large black spots. Identification of moths in this genus (A. nais/carlotta/phalerata/vittata) is difficult because there is not a 100% diagnostic characteristic to determine species from photographs. It must be examined under s microscope to be able to determine species for certain.
The frequency of occurrence in Fontenelle Forest and Neale Woods is not known. Two individuals were photographed at Camp Brewster in late April 2012. The adults visit artificial lights.
This Apantesis Tiger Moth is in the Arctiinae subfamily. The host plants for the larva are low herbs such as dandelions.
Disclaimer: The content of NatureSearch is provided by dedicated volunteer Naturalists of Fontenelle Forest who strive to provide the most accurate information available. Contributors of the images retain their copyrights. The point of contact for this page is: Babs Padelford.