white-striped black

White-striped black is a medium-sized, broad-winged, diurnal moth. It is common and widespread across North America, including in Minnesota.

The forewing is black with white markings. It is crossed by a broad white band that narrows at the inner margin. A small, wedge-shaped mark at the anal angle merges with the stripe. The fringe is mostly black, white just at the tip. The hindwing is black with a fringe that is partially white.

The caterpillar is called an inchworm. It is small, slender, and green. There is a vague black line in the spiracular area, barely discernible on most of the abdomen, becoming pronounces on the thorax, and crossing the head. The anal plate is sometimes reddish. There are sometimes a few very narrow white bands crossing the abdomen.

Wingspan: ¾″ to 1″

No similar species

Damp, deciduous woodlands.

Two generations per year: Early May through August

White-striped black is active during the day. It is frequently encountered along woodland trails. It can be attracted by jingling keys. The striped wing produces a flickering effect in flight, possibly helping the moth escape predators.

Impatiens spp.