.jpg&width=800)
Orange Footman
ExploreInsects
Orange Footman
Eilema sororcula
The Orange Footman is a small, fuzzy moth with bright orange and black colors. They are often found resting on leaves and are known for their unique appearance and gentle nature.
Habitat: Urban areas
Appearance
The Orange Footman is a small, slender moth with striking bright orange forewings. Its hindwings are slightly paler orange, and the body is also vivid orange. A distinctive, small grey-black mark or stripe near the base of the forewing helps differentiate it.
KingdomAnimaliaPhylumArthropodaClassInsectaOrderLepidopteraFamilyErebidaeGenusWittia
Category
InsectsRarity
Common
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
Be the first to snap!
Interesting facts
Adult Orange Footman moths often don't eat, living off energy stored from their caterpillar stage!
Its caterpillar spins a silk cocoon incorporating its own bristly hairs for camouflage and protection!
The caterpillar loves to snack on lichens and algae, making them tiny, fuzzy garden cleaners!
This moth earned the name 'Footman' because of its stiff, narrow wings, resembling a foot soldier's uniform!
Special abilities
Ability
Warning Colors
The Orange Footman has a bright orange coloration that warns predators it might be unpalatable or toxic.
Ability
Bristly Defense
Its caterpillar can roll into a ball, using its dense hairs to deter predators from taking a bite.
Ability
Night Navigator
Orange Footman can fly effectively in low light because of their excellent nocturnal vision, helping them find mates.
Measurements & details
- Wingspan
- 25-30 mm
- Size
- 10-15 mm
- Lifespan
- 7-14 days
- Leg Count
- 6
Diet & Feeding
Caterpillars eat lichens and algae; adult moths typically do not feed.
Age differences: Larvae consume lichens and algae, while adults usually do not feed, relying on larval stores.
Primary Foods
- Lichens
- Algae
- Mosses
Foraging Method
- Foraging
Ecological connections
eaten by
European Robin
Erithacus rubecula
Robins are generalist insectivores that may prey on moths.
eaten by
Common Pipistrelle
Pipistrellus pipistrellus
Bats actively hunt nocturnal insects, including Orange Footman moths.
eats
Monk's-hood Lichen
Hypogymnia physodes
The caterpillars feed on this common lichen species.
Traits
Furry
Furry describes animals possessing a dense covering of soft hair or fur.
Solitary
Solitary animals live alone for most of their lives, only interacting with others for mating or parental care.
Camouflaged
Camouflaged describes organisms that possess coloring or patterns that allow them to blend into their environment.
Colorful
Colorful describes organisms or objects displaying a wide range of bright and distinct colors.
Herbivorous
This trait characterizes organisms whose diet consists entirely or primarily of plant material.
Pollinator Magnet
Describes plants that are particularly attractive and beneficial to a wide range of pollinating organisms.
Urban Friendly
This habitat trait indicates species that can coexist with humans in urban and suburban environments, utilizing man-made structures and green spaces.
Nocturnal
Nocturnal animals are primarily active during the nighttime hours, typically resting or sleeping during the day.
Pollinator
Describes organisms that transfer pollen, enabling the fertilization and reproduction of plants.
Also known as
No aliases listed yet.
Collections
Safety
Danger
1/5 · Very low
It's safe to watch these moths, but don't touch them as they are delicate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Orange Footman's wingspan?
25-30 mm
How big is Orange Footman?
10-15 mm
How long does Orange Footman live?
7-14 days
What does Orange Footman eat?
Caterpillars eat lichens and algae; adult moths typically do not feed.
Where is Orange Footman usually found?
Urban areas
How does Orange Footman hunt?
Foraging
How many legs does Orange Footman have?
6
Snap Map
Zoom in to split clusters and explore where this object has been snapped.
Loading map…
Recent Snaps
Recent snaps will appear here as new observations are added.
.jpg&width=800)
