
Community identification
Jersey Tiger
Euplagia quadripunctaria
- Order & Family
- Lepidoptera, Erebidae
- Size
- Wingspan typically ranges from 50 mm to 65 mm.
Natural Habitat
Found in warm, open woods, bushy places, and gardens, particularly near coastal areas or valleys.
Diet & Feeding
Caterpillars feed on a variety of low-growing herbaceous plants including stinging nettles, borage, and dandelion. Adult moths feed on nectar from flowers such as ivy and buddleia.
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal moths that are also frequently active during the day, especially when disturbed. They overwinter as caterpillars.
Risks & Benefits
Generally harmless to humans. Their bright coloration serves as a warning of their unpalatability to predators. They are beneficial as pollinators and part of the natural ecosystem food web.