cattail moth
Common Namecattail moth
Scientific NameSyntomeida epilais
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)38
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsblack, white, yellow
HabitatGardens, parks, subtropical and tropical areas, especially near oleander plants
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States (Florida, Gulf Coast), Caribbean, Central America, South America
Host PlantsOleander (Nerium oleander)
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; spring to fall in subtropical areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are gregarious, feeding primarily on oleander leaves, and are covered in bristly hairs. They pupate in silken cocoons, often on the host plant.
Identification TipsKey features include the bold black and white striped pattern on the wings and body, a fuzzy yellow/orange head, and feathery antennae. Its appearance and flight mimic a wasp.
Description
This moth features a slender, black body and wings with prominent black and white longitudinal stripes. Its head and thorax are fuzzy and bright yellow or orange.
