Euonymus Leaf Notcher
Common NameEuonymus Leaf Notcher
Scientific NamePryeria sinica
FamilyZygaenidae
SubfamilyProcridinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patterntransparent
Primary Colorsorange, black, transparent
HabitatForests, woodlands, gardens, urban areas with host plants
Geographic RangeNative to East Asia (China, Korea, Japan). Introduced and invasive in parts of North America (e.g., Maryland, Virginia, New York, Pennsylvania).
Host PlantsEuonymus alatus, Euonymus fortunei, Euonymus japonicus, Euonymus europaeus
Flight PeriodLate fall to early winter (October to December, sometimes into January)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are gregarious, hairy, and feed voraciously on *Euonymus* leaves, often causing significant defoliation. They pupate in cocoons on or near the host plant, with adults emerging in the late fall or early winter.
Identification TipsLook for its distinctive fuzzy orange and black body, clear wings, and its unusual flight period in late autumn or early winter. The gregarious, hairy larvae feeding on *Euonymus* are also a key identifier.
Description
A small, day-flying moth characterized by a fuzzy orange body, a black head, legs, and a prominent black tuft at the end of its abdomen. Its wings are mostly transparent with dark venation and a slight iridescent sheen.
