description Dogbane tiger moth Overview
The dogbane tiger moth, Cycnia oregonensis, is a North American moth in the family Erebidae and subfamily Arctiinae. Its pale wings often have narrow yellow edging, while its caterpillars feed on dogbane and related plants whose chemical compounds can make them unpalatable to predators. Adults produce ultrasonic clicks that can interfere with bat echolocation, making the species important in research on acoustic defenses against predation.
help Dogbane tiger moth FAQ
What is the scientific name of the dogbane tiger moth?
The dogbane tiger moth in this catalog entry is Cycnia oregonensis, a member of the family Erebidae and subfamily Arctiinae. Adults are pale moths with an ochre-yellow head and a black-spotted yellow abdomen. [Pacific Northwest Moths](https://pnwmoths.biol.wwu.edu/browse/family-erebidae/subfamily-arctiinae/tribe-arctiini/cycnia/cycnia-oregonensis/)
Why do Cycnia oregonensis caterpillars feed on dogbane?
The larvae are foodplant specialists that feed on dogbane in the genus Apocynum. The moth is therefore usually found in open habitats where dogbane grows, rather than in every type of woodland or garden. [Pacific Northwest Moths](https://pnwmoths.biol.wwu.edu/browse/family-erebidae/subfamily-arctiinae/tribe-arctiini/cycnia/cycnia-oregonensis/)
How can I tell Cycnia oregonensis from Cycnia tenera?
Cycnia oregonensis usually has dark cream or off-white forewings with pale veins and no yellow stripe along the leading edge. Cycnia tenera is more likely to show a yellow costal margin and gray shading. [Pacific Northwest Moths](https://pnwmoths.biol.wwu.edu/browse/family-erebidae/subfamily-arctiinae/tribe-arctiini/cycnia/cycnia-oregonensis/) [Moths of North Carolina](https://auth1.dpr.ncparks.gov/moths/view.php?MONA_number=8231.00)
When are adult dogbane tiger moths active, and do lights attract them?
Adults have a long flight season from late spring to about mid-August, with most records from June through early August. They are nocturnal and commonly come to light. [Pacific Northwest Moths](https://pnwmoths.biol.wwu.edu/browse/family-erebidae/subfamily-arctiinae/tribe-arctiini/cycnia/cycnia-oregonensis/)
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