cypress spurge clearwing
Common Namecypress spurge clearwing
Scientific NameChamaesphecia empiformis
FamilySesiidae
SubfamilySesiinae
Wingspan (mm)21
Wing Patterntransparent
Primary Colorsyellow, black, transparent
HabitatDry grasslands, roadsides, open fields, areas with spurge infestations
Geographic RangeNative to Europe and Asia; introduced to North America (e.g., Canada, USA) for biological control.
Host Plantscypress spurge (*Euphorbia cyparissias*), leafy spurge (*Euphorbia esula*), other *Euphorbia* species
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are stem borers, feeding within the roots and lower stems of various spurge plants. Pupation occurs within the plant material.
Identification TipsKey features include its clear, unscaled wings, bright yellow and black banded body, and its strong resemblance to a wasp or bee. It is typically found flying during the day near its spurge host plants.
Description
A small, day-flying moth with a striking yellow and black striped abdomen, clear, transparent wings with dark veins and margins, and long, dark antennae. It exhibits Batesian mimicry, resembling wasps or bees.
