Macromoths of Northwest Forests and Woodlands

Tyria jacobaeae [Arctiidae]

Wingspan 3.7 cm. Forewing is dark gray-black with a red costal stripe and two red submarginal spots; hindwing all red; abdomen black. This species was intentionally introduced from Europe for control of a noxious weed, tansy ragwort (Senecio jacobaeae). This arctiid is very common west of the Cascade Mountains. Moths fly during the day in May and June. Caterpillars feed on foliage and flowers of Senecio.

Similar species: Phragmatobia fuliginosa (Arctiidae) forewing is light brown, hindwing is red with a black submarginal band, abdomen is red with a dorsal black stripe.

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