Ornate Tiger Moth

Apantesis ornata

Tiger moths are some of the more familiar moths because of their bright colors and beautiful patterns. Some brightly colored species fly during the day and are commonly mistaken for butterflies. The caterpillars of tiger moths are called woolly bears. They are large and evenly fuzzy, and may be black, brown, or yellow and black. Although all caterpillars of this family are called woolly bears, only one species, Isia isabella, is called the Woolly Bear Caterpillar Moth.

Look For : Ivory-and-black "stained-glass" pattern on fore wings. Pinkish hind wings have black spots.

Length : 1 1/8-1 5/8".

Habitat : Roadsides, fields.

Range : Great Basin to Pacific Coast.