Home / Erebidae Moths / Mexican Tiger Moth (Apantesis proxima)

Mexican Tiger Moth (Apantesis proxima)

The Mexican tiger moth is a member of the family of Erebidae moths. French entomologist Felix Guérin-Méneville first described it in 1844.

Mexican Tiger Moth

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Scientific Classification


  • Family: Erebidae
  • Genus: Apantesis
  • Scientific Name: Apantesis proxima

Description and Identification

Caterpillar

The caterpillars are covered in short hairs.

Mexican Tiger Moth Caterpillar

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Pupa

After maturing, the larvae begin to pupate.

Mexican Tiger Moth Pupa

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Adult Moth

Sexual Dimorphism: Present. The males have white hindwings, while the females have pink hindwings with black blotches.

Color and Appearance

Forewings: When the wings are open, black shapes are observed on top of a creamy white background. When the wings are closed, the patterns remain visible.

Hindwings: When the wings are open, they are pink with black spots in the females and white in the males. When the wings are closed, these colors are no longer visible.

Average wingspan: 1.4-2 cm

Flight pattern: Erratic

Season: April to October

Apantesis proxima

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Egg

Eggs are laid near a food source.

Quick Facts

DistributionMexico and parts of the Western United States
HabitatNot recorded
Lifespan of Adults1-2 weeks
Host PlantsHerbaceous plants
Adult DietDoes not feed

Did You Know

  • There are two sub-species – Apantesis proxima proxima and Apantesis proxima mormonica.
Mexican Tiger Moth Image

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Mexican Tiger Moth Picture

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