Garden Tiger | Reserves and species

Scientific Name:

Arctia caja

A large, brightly coloured moth, the Garden Tiger Moth is on the wing towards the end of the summer, during July and August. It is a night-flying moth of scrub-covered sand dunes, woodland edge, wet meadows, parks and gardens. The striking caterpillars are large, black and covered in long, dense, black and ginger hairs: they are commonly called 'Woolly Bears'. They feed on Stinging Nettles, Dock leaves and many garden plants.

How to identify:

The Garden Tiger Moth has a chocolate-brown, furry body, brown- and white-patterned forewings, and bright red hindwings with four or five large black spots. There are five similar tiger moths in Britain, all of which are smaller. The Wood Tiger and Cream-spot Tiger have yellowy-orange hindwings instead of red; the former has black and yellow forewings and the latter has black and white forewings. The Jersey Tiger has white stripes on the black forewings, while the Scarlet Tiger has white spots on the black forewings.

Where to find it:

Widespread.

How people can help:

Once a very common moth, the Garden Tiger has suffered serious declines in recent years, possibly as a result of changes in the climate, and is now only really common around the coast. The Wildlife Trusts manage many nature reserves for the benefit of all kinds of moths and butterflies, including the Garden Tiger. You can help too: plant nectar-rich borders and shrubs and leave patches of nettles to attract moths and butterflies into your garden. To find out more about encouraging wildlife into your garden, visit our Wild About Gardens website: a joint initiative with the RHS, there's plenty of facts and tips to get you started.

Statistics:

Wingspan: 6.5cm

Conservation status:

Classified as a Priority Species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan.

Did you know?:

The Garden Tiger Moth is well-protected against predators: the hairs on the caterpillar are irritating; the bright colours on the adult warn that it is unpalatable; and adults can rub their wings together to create a rasping noise.

Seasons:

Summer

When to see

Start date:

July

End date:

August

Image:

Garden tiger moth on buddleia - Denis Jackson