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Isabella Tiger Moth

Pyrrharctia isabella

The Isabella Tiger Moth (Pyrrharctia isabella), also known as the “woolly bear caterpillar,” is a well-known and distinctive species of moth found in North America. Known for its orange brown color and abdominal row of black spots, the Isabella Tiger Moth can easily be distinguished from any other species in North America.

During its larval stage as the woolly bear caterpillar, it is often spotted crawling on the ground in search of food. The Isabella Tiger Moth undergoes a fascinating transformation, developing a cocoon during its pupal stage before emerging as a fully-grown adult moth. 

While the adult moth is less visually remarkable than its caterpillar form, it remains an important member of the ecosystem, playing a vital role in pollination and serving as prey for various predators. Its popularity in folktales, predicting the severity of winters based on the thickness of its black bands, adds to the species’ cultural significance.

Habitat
Typically found near marshes and meadows
Scientific Name
Pyrrharctia isabella
Status
Common
Wing Span
22mm to 26mm
General Size
Small
Wing Color
brown
brown
orange
orange
Marking's Color
black
black
Markings Pattern
Spots

Characteristics describe the physical and behavioral traits that distinguish a species from others. This section helps readers identify and differentiate between similar species, aiding in species identification and reducing the chance of misidentification.

Identifying Characteristics

  1. Faint lines on wings

  2. Dark spots on wings

  3. Pointed wings

A range map is a visual representation of a species' geographical distribution, and it helps naturalists and field researchers quickly determine if a species is likely to be found in a given area, aiding in identification, conservation, and habitat management efforts.