March 18, 2024

I am an Ornate Bella Moth

I'm seen more commonly than most moths

That is because I'm diurnal

If you come too close to me, I'll fly off.

Location: UF DeLuca Preserve 2024 Bioblitz

Sources: https://entnemdept.ufl.edu/Creatures/beneficial/leps/bella_moth.htm

Photo and text © 2024 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

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November 16, 2022

I am an Ornate Bella Moth

I can be found from Nebraska down to the Antilles

When I was a pupae I rested under a layer of silk

Which, although pretty, was not lace from Chantilly. 

Location: St. Sebastian River Preserve State Park, Fellsmere

Sources: https://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/beneficial/leps/bella_moth.htm

Photo and text © 2022 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

October 23, 2020

I am an Ornate Bella Moth,

I rely on immature seeds of Crotalaria plants

They make me repulsive to other critters

Such as Scrub Jays and some species of ants. 

Location: Fellsmere Headwaters

Sources: http://entnemdept.ufl.edu/creatures/beneficial/leps/bella_moth.htm

http://nwdistrict.ifas.ufl.edu/phag/files/2012/10/rattlebox.pdf

Photo and text © 2020 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

July 29, 2019

Location: Melbourne, Hundred Acre Hollows

I am an Ornate Bella Moth
I'm pinkish-orange and I am diurnal
This means you can find me during the day
Unlike most moths, who are nocturnal.

Sources: UF|IFAS Featured Creatures - Ornate bella moth

Photo and text © 2018 Dee Fairbanks Simpson