Cream-spot Tiger Arctia villica
(c) bigayon, some rights reserved (CC BY)
OrderButterflies and Moths (Lepidoptera)
FamilyUnderwing, Tiger, Tussock, and Allied Moths (Erebidae)
GenusArctia (Arctia)
This striking moth takes its name seriously—cream-colored spots against darker wings make it instantly recognizable. It was formally described by Linnaeus himself in 1758, giving it real taxonomic pedigree. Found across a massive range spanning from Spain to western Siberia and North Africa, this species proves that tiger moths are globe-trotters. Despite its broad distribution, it remains a beloved subject for European moth watchers.
Think you can identify this one in the wild?
Play Now