Bug Identifier
Leopard moth (giant leopard moth)
Community identification

Leopard moth (giant leopard moth)

Hypercompe scribonia

Order & Family
Lepidoptera; Erebidae (subfamily Arctiinae)
Size
Wingspan about 5–8 cm (2–3 in).
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Gardens, woodland edges, fields, and other areas with broad-leaved plants; native to much of North America.

Diet & Feeding

Caterpillars feed on many herbaceous plants and shrubs; adults feed little or not at all.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are mostly nocturnal and rest with striking white, black-spotted wings spread. The hairy caterpillar curls up when disturbed, revealing red bands between its bristles.

Risks & Benefits

Harmless to people; its caterpillars contribute to food webs and rarely cause significant plant damage.