description Acrea Moth Overview
Estigmene acrea, commonly called the acrea moth or salt marsh moth, is a North American tiger moth in the family Erebidae. Adults are variable, but often have white or yellow-orange wings marked with black spots; females and males can differ substantially in size and color. Its caterpillars feed on many herbaceous plants and can occasionally become agricultural pests, so the species is relevant to both naturalists and crop observers.
help Acrea Moth FAQ
How can I identify an acrea moth?
The acrea moth is Estigmene acrea, a tiger moth with white or yellow-orange wings marked by black spots. Males commonly have orange hindwings, while females often have whiter hindwings.
Where is Estigmene acrea found?
It is widespread in North America and is reported southward from Mexico to Colombia. The species is especially associated with open habitats, gardens, fields, and other places where its larval food plants grow.
What does the acrea moth caterpillar eat?
The larva is called the salt marsh caterpillar and feeds on many plants rather than one single host. Recorded food plants include cabbage, clover, corn, cotton, peas, potatoes, tobacco, and apple.
How large is an acrea moth?
Reported adult wingspans are around 4.5 to 6.8 centimeters. In much of its range, adults can have two broods with flight activity from roughly May through August.
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