Bug Identifier
Harnessed Tiger Moth
Community identification

Harnessed Tiger Moth

Apantesis phalerata

Order & Family
Lepidoptera: Erebidae
Size
30 to 42 mm wingspan.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Open fields, meadows, gardens, and forest edges across North America.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae (caterpillars) feed on various low-growing plants like clover, dandelion, and plantain. Adults often do not feed or take nectar.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal and attracted to light. They exhibit a distinct 'harnessed' pattern on their forewings. The lifecycle includes multiple generations per year in warmer climates.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans. They are beneficial as part of the food web and serve as pollinators when feeding on nectar.