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Williams' Tiger Moth

Apantesis williamsii

The Williams' Tiger Moth is a beautiful insect with striking orange and black markings. It flutters around at night and is often seen near lights, making it a delightful sight for those who spot it.

Habitat: Grasslands

Appearance

The Williams' Tiger Moth has striking black forewings marked with bold white or creamy streaks. Its hindwings are a vibrant orange with distinct black spots or bands, making it easily distinguishable. The body is fuzzy and often dark with some orange markings.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumArthropodaClassInsectaOrderLepidopteraFamilyErebidaeGenusApantesis
Williams' Tiger Moth
furry trait badgesolitary trait badgecolorful trait badgegrassland trait badge
Williams' Tiger Moth

Category

Insects

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Adult Williams' Tiger Moths only live about two weeks, focusing on finding a mate!

Its fuzzy caterpillar is sometimes called a 'woolly bear,' even though it's not a bear!

These moths are drawn to bright lights at night, which helps scientists spot them!

They don't eat as adults; they survive on energy stored from their caterpillar days!

Special abilities

Ability

Warning Colors

Williams' Tiger Moth has vivid orange and black patterns that warn predators of its unpleasant taste, helping them avoid being eaten.

Ability

Chemical Defense

Williams' Tiger Moth can release foul-tasting chemicals when threatened, because these deter predators who try to eat them.

Ability

Hairy Shield

Williams' Tiger Moth caterpillars have bristly hairs that make them look unappetizing to predators, helping them stay safe while they munch.

Ability

Night Navigator

Williams' Tiger Moth can fly efficiently in the dark of night, because this helps them find mates and food sources under cover.

Measurements & details

Wingspan
30-45 mm
Size
15-25 mm
Lifespan
7-14 days
Flight Speed
10 km/h
Leg Count
6

Diet & Feeding

Caterpillars munch on plants, while adult moths usually don't eat at all!

Age differences: Larvae (caterpillars) are voracious plant-eaters, but adult moths typically do not feed.

Primary Foods

  • Taraxacum officinale
  • Plantago major
  • Symphyotrichum novae-angliae
  • Poa pratensis
  • Trifolium repens

Foraging Method

  • Foraging

Ecological connections

Traits

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Moths are usually safe to watch, but don't touch them as they can be delicate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Williams' Tiger Moth's wingspan?

30-45 mm

How big is Williams' Tiger Moth?

15-25 mm

How long does Williams' Tiger Moth live?

7-14 days

How fast can Williams' Tiger Moth fly?

10 km/h

What does Williams' Tiger Moth eat?

Caterpillars munch on plants, while adult moths usually don't eat at all!

Where is Williams' Tiger Moth usually found?

Grasslands

How does Williams' Tiger Moth hunt?

Foraging

How many legs does Williams' Tiger Moth have?

6

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