Polka-Dot Wasp Moth
Common NamePolka-Dot Wasp Moth
Scientific NameSyntomeida epilais
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)38
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsiridescent blue, black, white, red
HabitatGardens, parks, disturbed areas, subtropical and tropical environments
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States (primarily Florida and Gulf Coast), Caribbean, Central America, South America
Host PlantsOleander (*Nerium oleander*), other Apocynaceae
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical/subtropical regions; multiple generations
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae, known as oleander caterpillars, are orange with black spots and tufts of black hair, feeding gregariously on oleander leaves before pupating in a silken cocoon.
Identification TipsLook for the combination of iridescent blue-black coloration, white polka dots on the wings and body, and the bright red-orange tip of the abdomen, all contributing to its wasp mimicry.
Description
This moth has an iridescent blue-black body and wings, adorned with prominent white polka dots on its wings and abdomen. Its abdomen terminates in a distinctive red-orange tip.
