Species Insects & ArthropodsEight-spotted Forester

Eight-spotted Forester

Alypia octomaculata

CommonInsect & Arthropod
Illustration of Eight-spotted Forester (Alypia octomaculata)

The Eight-spotted Forester is a day-flying moth that closely resembles a butterfly, with velvety black wings marked by two yellow forewing spots and two white hindwing spots, plus bright orange leg tufts. It visits flowers actively by day and can be mistaken for a small black butterfly. It is one of the most striking moths in eastern North America.

Habitat
Forest edges, gardens, and vineyards with wild grape
Diet
Larvae: Virginia creeper and wild grape. Adults: nectar from flowers
How common
Common

Recent Eight-spotted Forester sightings near you

Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.

Spot a Eight-spotted Forester? Identify it instantly.

Point Huck at any plant or animal and get an instant ID, rarity, and field notes — building your personal nature collection as you go.

Get Huck — free

More insects & arthropods

13-Year Periodical Cicada
13-Year Periodical Cicada
Magicicada tredecim
Acmon Blue
Acmon Blue
Plebejus acmon
Acorn Ant
Acorn Ant
Temnothorax curvispinosus
Acorn Weevil
Acorn Weevil
Curculio glandium
Aerial Yellowjacket
Aerial Yellowjacket
Dolichovespula arenaria
Alderfly
Alderfly
Sialis lutaria
Alfalfa Leafcutting Bee
Alfalfa Leafcutting Bee
Megachile rotundata
Ambush Bug
Ambush Bug
Phymata americana