Family: Arctiidae, Tiger Moths view all from this family

Description  1 1/2" (38 mm). Forewings black, white criss-crossing; male hindwings white, female's red, checked with black. Abdomen red.

Similar Species Tiger moths of the genus Apentesis generally have black forewings with white markings and brightly colored hindwings and so closely resemble one another superficially. The Ornate Tiger Moth (Apentesis ornata), which is more common in northern California, has finer, creamy markings on the forewings.

Life Cycle Nocturnal. Host plants are low-growing plants.

Flight April to August.

Habitat Roadsides, weedy fields.

Range Central Valley to dry areas of central California.

Discussion Tiger moths are worth the time and effort to search out, for they are among the most stunning of moths with their wings fully exposed. Males are attracted to lights and should be sought there in the evening and very early morning hours.