Fireweed Clearwing Moth
Common NameFireweed Clearwing Moth
Scientific NameBembecia tibialis
FamilySesiidae
SubfamilySesiinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterntransparent
Primary Colorsblack, yellow, transparent
HabitatOpen woodlands, clearings, meadows, and areas where fireweed grows
Geographic RangeWestern and Northern North America, including Alaska, Canada, and the western United States
Host PlantsFireweed (Epilobium angustifolium)
Flight PeriodJuly to August
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are root borers, feeding within the roots and lower stems of fireweed plants. Pupation occurs inside the host plant, with adults emerging in mid-summer.
Identification TipsLook for its transparent wings with dark borders, the fuzzy black and yellow striped abdomen that gives it a wasp-like appearance, and its presence in areas abundant with fireweed.
Description
This medium-sized moth has a fuzzy, black and yellow striped body, strongly mimicking a bee or wasp. Its wings are largely transparent with distinct dark brown to black margins and veins.
