Tiger moths: What is that white moth with black spots?

Bugs like birds are fascinating to observe. These two beauties were attracted to the flowers in front of the Wild Birds Unlimited - East Lansing store this week.

The first is the Giant Leopard Moth or Eyed Tiger Moth (Hypercompe scribonia). Wow what a show stopper! It was sitting on the sidewalk and I snapped a quick picture before I moved it to the violet plant where it will lay eggs hopefully.

The larvae, which look similar to Woolly Bear, feed on a great variety of broad-leaved plants, including banana, cabbage, cherry, dandelion, maple, orange, sunflower, violet, and willow leaves.

The second wasn’t as easy to identify. I think it’s a type of tiger moth. I didn’t know what markings to look for until after it flew away. Perhaps it’s a Pink-legged Tiger Moth or a Virginian Tiger Moth.

BugGuide is a good resource for butterflies or moths.

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Category › Nature up close