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Giant Leopard Moth

Hypercompe scribonia

Photo by MaryEvans2
Published on Project Noah
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30.4694, -83.6302

Field Notes

Description:

Also referred to as the Eyed Tiger Moth.

This species has a wingspan of 3 inches (nearly 8 cm). The wings of this moth are bright white with a pattern of neat black blotches, some solid and some hollow. The abdomen is dark blue with orange markings, the male has a narrow yellow line on the sides. Its legs have black and white bands. Adult moths are strictly nocturnal and do not generally fly before nightfall

Notes:

The caterpillar is of the "Woolly Bear" kind, with a thick coat of black bristles (setae) and red or orange colored bands between its segments which become conspicuous when caterpillar rolls into a ball for defense.

Species ID Suggestions

Comments (6)

Thank you Karen, Gerardo and Small wonders - @ Small wonders isn't it fun to learn new things about the nature that surrounds us? I am totally fascinated with nature and how much so many people miss. I didn't know they liked Dandelions - so I learned something new too - thank you!
Great spot! I just learned today that Dandelion is a host plant for the Giant Leopard Moth ;)

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