Spotted Oleander Moth
Common NameSpotted Oleander Moth
Scientific NameSyntomeida epilais
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)37.5
Primary Colorsred, blue, black, white
HabitatGardens, parks, and disturbed areas where oleander grows, tropical and subtropical environments.
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States (Florida, Gulf Coast), Caribbean, Mexico, Central and South America.
Host PlantsOleander (Nerium oleander), other Apocynaceae species
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; multiple broods from spring to fall in subtropical regions.
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are gregarious, feeding on oleander leaves and often defoliating plants. They are hairy and black with red heads and white spots. Pupation occurs in a communal silken cocoon.
Identification TipsLook for its distinctive translucent reddish-orange wings and iridescent blue-green and black spotted body. It is often seen flying during the day, especially around oleander plants.
Description
A striking day-flying moth with translucent reddish-orange wings, a metallic blue-green abdomen banded with black and marked with white spots, and a black head and thorax also adorned with white spots.
