Polka-Dot Wasp Moth
Common NamePolka-Dot Wasp Moth
Scientific NameSyntomeida epilais
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsred, white, brown, black
HabitatGardens, parks, urban areas, coastal regions, and disturbed habitats where host plants are present.
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States (primarily Florida and Gulf Coast), Caribbean, Central America, and northern South America.
Host PlantsNerium oleander, Echites umbellata, Allamanda cathartica
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical and subtropical climates, with multiple overlapping broods.
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesFemales lay eggs on the underside of host plant leaves. The larvae are gregarious, hairy, black with red heads, and tufts of white or yellow hairs. They pupate in silken cocoons, often on the host plant or nearby structures.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the bright red abdomen, the white thorax with prominent black spots, and the brown forewings with distinct, translucent white spots. Its mimicry of a wasp and its strong association with oleander plants are also helpful indicators.
Description
This moth has a vibrant red abdomen, a white thorax heavily marked with black spots, and brown forewings adorned with large, translucent white patches. Its head and legs also feature a striking combination of red and black.
