Home / Erebidae Moths / Painted Tiger Moth (Arachnis picta)

Painted Tiger Moth (Arachnis picta)

The banded tiger moth is an Erebidae moth found in the United States. American entomologist  American entomologist, Alpheus Spring Packard first described this species in 1864.

Painted Tiger Moth

calscape.com

Scientific Classification


  • Family: Erebidae
  • Genus: Arachnis
  • Scientific Name: Arachnis picta

Description and Identification

Caterpillar

They are black with orange blots from which tufts of setae grow. The caterpillar mostly remain active during night, when their black body perfectly camouflages with the surrounding area.

live.staticflickr.com

Pupa

Once the larvae mature, they begin to pupate.

Adult Moth

Sexual Dimorphism: Present but not prominent.

Color and Appearance

Forewings: When the wings are opened, a dense marbled grayish-white marbled pattern is observed. When the wings are closed, the pattern remains observable.

Hindwings: When the wings are opened, perhaps during rest or flight they are a bright, rosy color. When the wings are closed, they are completely hidden.

Average wingspan: 5 cm

Flight pattern: Erratic

Season: Summer to Fall

Arachnis picta

granite.ucnrs.org

Egg

The oblong-shaped eggs have a shiny appearance.

Painted Tiger Moth Eggs

bugguide.net

Quick Facts

DistributionSouthwestern United States and the corresponding Mexican border
HabitatNear fields and lawns
Lifespan of Adults5-10 days
Host PlantsHerbs, including lupine and radish
Adult DietDoes not feed

Did You Know

  • There are several sub-species, including Arachnis picta picta, Arachnis picta maia, and Arachnis picta verna.
Painted Tiger Moth Image

i.pinimg.com

Painted Tiger Moth Picture

calscape.com

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *