Strawberry Crown Moth
Common NameStrawberry Crown Moth
Scientific NamePennisetia marginata
FamilySesiidae
SubfamilySesiinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patterntransparent
Primary Colorsblack, yellow, iridescent
HabitatGardens, fields, forest edges, areas with host plants
Geographic RangeNorth America (from British Columbia south to California, east to Quebec and New England states)
Host Plantsstrawberry, raspberry, blackberry, rose, cinquefoil
Flight PeriodJune to September
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae bore into the crowns and roots of host plants, overwintering as larvae and pupating in the spring. Adults emerge in summer.
Identification TipsKey features include transparent wings with dark veins, a black and yellow striped body, clubbed antennae, and a prominent black and yellow anal tuft, giving it a strong wasp-like appearance.
Description
A slender, wasp-mimicking moth with mostly transparent wings, a black and yellow striped abdomen, and a fan-like tuft at the tail.
