The English name of this moth is most appropriate for those found in southern England.  In northern England and Ireland, the forewings are darker with some blackish tints on the hindwings.  One or two small spots are present on the forewings, these can be connected forming a crescent.

Can be found in flight by day, particularly in sunshine.  Mating sometimes occurs in mid-afternoon. Also flies from dusk and into the night.

Flight Season

Flies in April to June, and in the south, again in August and September.

Size and Family

  • Family – Tigers, Ermines, Footmen and allies (Arctiids)
  • Medium Sized 

Conservation status

  • UK BAP: Not listed
  • Common

Caterpillar Food Plants

Herbs, including ragworts, plantains, heathers, dock, dandelion, Spindle and Broom.

Habitat

Occurs in most open habitats, including downland, heathland, moorland, woodland clearings, sand-dunes, gardens and water meadows.

Distribution

  • Countries – England, Wales, Scotland, Ireland
  • Widespread and common throughout England, Ireland, Wales and Scotland, also found on the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands.
 
Ruby Tiger - Ryszard Szczygieł

Ruby Tiger

Ruby Tiger - Koen Thonissen

Ruby Tiger

Ruby Tiger - Ben Sale

Ruby Tiger

Ruby Tiger - Garry Barlow

Ruby Tiger

Ruby Tiger - Ben Sale

Ruby Tiger

Ruby Tiger - Rob Blanken

Ruby Tiger

Ruby Tiger (young caterpillar) - Ryszard Szczygieł

Ruby Tiger (young caterpillar)

Ruby Tiger (Full grown caterpillar) - Ivan Lynas

Ruby Tiger (Full grown caterpillar)

Ruby Tiger (pupa) - Ilia Ustyantsev

Ruby Tiger (pupa)


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