Orange Virbia Moth
ExploreInsects
Orange Virbia Moth
virbia aurantiaca
The Orange Virbia Moth (Virbia aurantiaca) is a delightful and vibrant member of the tiger moth subfamily. Known for its striking contrast of colors, this small moth brings a splash of warm orange to the grassy fields and damp meadows of eastern North America. Unlike many moth species that are strictly nocturnal, the Orange Virbia is frequently active during the day and at dusk, fluttering low through vegetation in search of mates or nectar. Its life cycle is deeply intertwined with various common weeds and wildflowers, making it a vital and fascinating contributor to local grassland ecosystems.
Habitat: Typically found in damp meadows, grassy fields, marsh edges, and open woodlands where larval host plants are abundant.
Appearance
This small moth features a wingspan of approximately 2 to 3 centimeters. Its forewings are typically a muted, earthy shade ranging from yellowish-brown to deep cinnamon, which provides excellent camouflage when resting on leaf litter. In stark contrast, its hindwings are a brilliant, fiery orange or peach-colored hue, boldly bordered with dark charcoal-black markings. The abdomen is also bright orange, warning potential predators of its toxic chemical defenses.
KingdomAnimaliaPhylumArthropodaClassInsectaOrderLepidopteraFamilyErebidaeGenusVirbia
Category
InsectsRarity
Common
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
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Interesting facts
Male Orange Virbia Moths have highly sensitive antennae that can detect female sex pheromones from extraordinary distances.
Their caterpillars are densely covered in stiff, bristly hairs, giving them a fuzzy appearance often referred to as woolly bears.
When threatened, they flash their bright orange hindwings, a sudden burst of color designed to startle predators.
Special abilities
Ability
Acoustic Warning
Emits ultrasonic clicks to warn insectivorous bats of its toxicity and disrupt their echolocation.
Ability
Chemical Defense
Sequesters toxic compounds from host plants during its larval stage, rendering both caterpillar and adult toxic to predators.
Ability
Day-Active Flight
Adapts to diurnal and crepuscular flight, utilizing daytime warmth to search for mates and nectar.
Measurements & details
- Length
- 1-2 cm
- Wingspan
- 2-3 cm
- Weight
- 0.0001-0.0003 kg
- Lifespan
- 0-1 years
- Top Speed
- 8 km/h
- Clutch Size
- 50-150
- Incubation
- 5-10 days
Diet & Feeding
Caterpillars feed on various low-growing herbaceous weeds, while adults primarily sip flower nectar or moisture.
Age differences: Larvae consume solid plant foliage, whereas adults transition to a liquid diet consisting of nectar and water.
Primary Foods
- Dandelion leaves
- Plantain leaves
- Flower nectar
- Wild grasses
Foraging Method
- Grazing
Ecological connections
host plant
Common Dandelion
Taraxacum officinale
Larvae feed on the leaves of this common weed.
host plant
Broadleaf Plantain
Plantago major
Larvae graze on the foliage of this broadleaf herb.
eaten by
Big Brown Bat
Eptesicus fuscus
Preys on adult moths but is often deterred by their ultrasonic clicks.
Traits
No trait badges are assigned for this object yet.
Also known as
No aliases listed yet.
Collections
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Safety
Danger
1/5 · Very low
No special safety notes yet.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to identify Orange Virbia Moth?
The easiest way to identify Orange Virbia Moth is to use the Snappit nature identifier app.
How long is Orange Virbia Moth?
1-2 cm
What is Orange Virbia Moth's wingspan?
2-3 cm
How much does Orange Virbia Moth weigh?
0.0001-0.0003 kg
How long does Orange Virbia Moth live?
0-1 years
How fast can Orange Virbia Moth move?
8 km/h
What does Orange Virbia Moth eat?
Caterpillars feed on various low-growing herbaceous weeds, while adults primarily sip flower nectar or moisture.
Where is Orange Virbia Moth usually found?
Typically found in damp meadows, grassy fields, marsh edges, and open woodlands where larval host plants are abundant.
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