Raspberry clearwing moth
Common NameRaspberry clearwing moth
Scientific NamePennisetia marginata
FamilySesiidae
SubfamilyTinthiinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patterntransparent
Primary Colorsblack, yellow, brown
HabitatOpen woodlands, forest edges, gardens, areas with host plants
Geographic RangeWestern North America (British Columbia to California, east to Montana and Colorado)
Host Plantsraspberry, blackberry, thimbleberry, salmonberry
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae bore into the canes and roots of *Rubus* species, feeding internally. Pupation occurs within the host plant stem.
Identification TipsLook for its distinctive wasp mimicry, with a black and yellow banded abdomen and clear wings. The antennae are dark, and the head and thorax are black with yellow markings. It is often found near raspberry and blackberry plants.
Description
This moth has a black and yellow striped abdomen, dark antennae, and mostly transparent wings with dark veins and margins, giving it a wasp-like appearance.
