Edwards' Wasp Moth
Common NameEdwards' Wasp Moth
Scientific NameLymire edwardsii
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorsblack, blue, orange
HabitatOpen woodlands, scrub, gardens, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States (Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, Texas), Caribbean
Host PlantsFicus, Cestrum, Syngonium, Philodendron
Flight PeriodYear-round in warmer regions, multiple broods
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are hairy, often black with orange or yellow markings, and pupate in a silken cocoon that incorporates their larval hairs.
Identification TipsKey features for identification include its dark wings, striking metallic blue abdomen, and bright orange head and collar, which mimic a wasp.
Description
This moth features dark, somewhat translucent wings, a vibrant metallic iridescent blue abdomen, and a contrasting bright orange head and collar.
