Cream-spot Tiger

Like the other tiger moths, this is a large colourful moth with bold markings. Its distinctive features are its black forewings with cream spots, yellow hindwings and a furry black thorax.

When disturbed it will display its hindwings and its orange/red abdomen to warn off predators.

It spends most of the year as a larva, from July to late April or early May, before pupating in a cocoon amongst low vegetation. The adult moth then emerges after about 20 days.

Flight Times

They have one generation from May to early July. They usually fly at night and are attracted to light.

Size and Family

• Family – Tigers and ermines moths (Arctiinae)

• Large-sized

• Wingspan Range – 45-60mm

Conservation Status

• UK BAP: Not listed

• Local (only found in some areas)

Caterpillar Food Plants

The caterpillars feed on a range of herbaceous plants such as dead-nettles and dandelions.

Habitat

They are found in a range of open habitats such as clifftops, saltmarshes and sand dunes.

Distribution

• Countries – England, Wales

• It is found across southern England, south Wales and the Channel Islands. It has a local distribution and is most frequently recorded in coastal areas, and on heathland.