Maple Clearwing Moth
Common NameMaple Clearwing Moth
Scientific NameParanthrene simulans
FamilySesiidae
SubfamilySesiinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patterntransparent
Primary Colorsblack, orange, iridescent blue
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, urban areas with host trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Canada to Florida and west to the Great Plains
Host Plantsmaple (Acer spp.), oak (Quercus spp.), birch (Betula spp.)
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae bore into the wood of host trees, feeding under the bark of trunks and larger branches. Pupation occurs within the larval tunnel.
Identification TipsLook for transparent wings, a dark body, and a distinctive bright orange tuft at the end of the abdomen. Often found near maple trees, its primary host.
Description
A slender, dark-bodied moth with mostly transparent wings, dark wing margins, and a prominent orange anal tuft. It mimics a wasp in appearance.
