Butterflies and Moths of North America

collecting and sharing data about Lepidoptera

National Moth Week is July 18-26!

Moths are amazing creatures. Take photographs and share your moth sightings with us to document the moths where you live.

  Sighting 1290676

Vestal Tiger Moth
Spilosoma vestalis

Observation date: May 15, 2021
Submitted by: Creepycupcake
Specimen type: Photograph
Observation notes: I was checking on one of my bell pepper plants, and I always give the leaves a good shake, to deter any hungry bugs and move them if need be. I shook the leaves a little and this beauty came out and landed on the ground. It was not very active , nor did it try to fly away at all. I took the picture and set her down on my strawberry plant. Upon checking the leaves where the moth was located, I found eggs. I would assume these are hers, as this is exactly where she came from. I am going to try to keep the eggs safe and see what happens.
Status: Resident
Verified by: curtis.lehman
Verified date: March 28, 2026
Coordinator notes: None.
Checklist region(s): United States, California, Lake County