description Scarlet Tiger Moth Overview
The Scarlet Tiger Moth is a diurnal moth species belonging to the family Erebidae, commonly found across Europe and parts of the Middle East. It is distinguished by its striking aposematic coloration, featuring black forewings with white or yellow spots and bright red or scarlet hindwings with black spots. These bright patterns serve as a warning to predators regarding the moth's unpalatability. The insect typically inhabits damp environments such as woodlands, marshes, and riverbanks where its larval food plants are abundant.
help Scarlet Tiger Moth FAQ
Is a Scarlet Tiger Moth active during the day or at night?
The Scarlet Tiger Moth, Callimorpha dominula, commonly flies in daylight, although it may also come to light at night. In Britain, adults are most often seen around June and July in damp habitats such as riverbanks, marshes, and coastal cliffs.
How can I distinguish a Scarlet Tiger Moth from a Cream-spot Tiger?
A Scarlet Tiger usually has dark forewings with cream or yellowish spots and vivid scarlet hindwings. The similar Cream-spot Tiger, Arctia villica, has a conspicuous pale patch near the base of each forewing and a more slender appearance.
What do Scarlet Tiger caterpillars eat?
The caterpillars feed on several low-growing plants, with comfrey in the genus Symphytum being an especially important host. They overwinter as larvae before resuming feeding and pupating in spring.
Are the Scarlet Tiger Moth's red wings a warning to predators?
Yes, the bright red hindwings are aposematic coloration that warns potential predators that the moth may be distasteful. The color is often hidden at rest and suddenly exposed when the roughly 45 to 55 mm moth takes flight.
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