Scarlet Tiger

This tropical-looking moth is very distinctive.  Rarely, individuals with yellow hindwings or yellow spots on the forewings occur, and in some forms the hindwings may be extensively black.

Frequently flies in sunshine, particularly in late afternoon and early evening for the males.  Can also be found during the day resting on leaves. Also flies at night.

Flight Season

Flies from May to June in one generation.

Size and Family

• Family – Tigers, Ermines, Footmen and allies (Arctiids)
• Large Sized 

Conservation status

• UK BAP: Not listed
• Local (only found in some areas)

Caterpillar Food Plants

Common Comfrey, Hemp Agrimony and Hound’s Tongue.  When larger the caterpillars are often found feeding on Common Nettle, Bramble, sallows, Honeysuckle and Meadowsweet.

Habitat

Distribution

• Countries – England, Wales
• This species is predominantly confined to the south and west England and Wales with two isolated populations in Kent.  Several individuals have been found on Jersey in the last 20 years but it is not known whether it is resident.