Arctiinae

A large and diverse subfamily of small to medium-sized moths. The family includes the tiger moths (or tigers), footmen, lichen moths and wasp moths. . Arctiinae are highly diverse moths known for their brilliant colouration, chemical defences, acoustic tricks, and hairy caterpillars. Though some are cryptic, blending into bark or leaves, many are vividly patterned with bold spots, stripes, or bright colours (red, orange, yellow, black, white). The forewings are often patterned, with brightly coloured hindwings that are used in startle displays. Their bodies are robust and hairy, often with bright tufts or markings. Many species are aposematic (warningly coloured), advertising their unpalatability due to toxic or distasteful chemicals acquired from host plants (e.g., alkaloids). Some species of this subfamily mimic bees, wasps, or other toxic moths, and several can produce ultrasonic clicks to deter bats, sometimes jamming their echolocation. The caterpillars are covered in dense hairs or “bristles,” which can deter predators. A common name for them is 'woolly bears', and they ae known to roll into a ball when disturbed. The hairs of some species can also cause irritation to humans.