Ithaca Clearwing Moth
Common NameIthaca Clearwing Moth
Scientific NameParanthrene simulans
FamilySesiidae
SubfamilySesiinae
Wingspan (mm)32
Wing Patterntransparent
Primary Colorsblack, yellow, brown
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, areas with oak trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Canada south to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsoak (Quercus spp.), especially red oaks
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae bore into the wood of host trees, primarily oaks, feeding internally for one to two years before pupating within their burrows. Adults emerge in late spring to summer.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its transparent wings, black and yellow banded abdomen mimicking a wasp, and a dark, fan-like tail tuft. Often found near oak trees, its primary host.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mostly transparent wings, a dark, wasp-like body banded with yellow, and a prominent dark tail tuft.
