Virginia Creeper Clearwing
Common NameVirginia Creeper Clearwing
Scientific NamePennisetia marginata
FamilySesiidae
SubfamilyTinthiinae
Wingspan (mm)24
Wing Patterntransparent
Primary Colorsblack, iridescent blue, iridescent purple, yellow
HabitatDeciduous forests, forest edges, open woodlands, gardens
Geographic RangeEastern North America (Nova Scotia to Manitoba, south to Florida and Texas)
Host PlantsVirginia Creeper, wild grape
Flight PeriodJune to September
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae bore into the stems and roots of host plants like Virginia Creeper and wild grape, feeding internally. Pupation occurs within the host plant, and adults emerge in the summer months.
Identification TipsKey features include its black body with iridescent markings, transparent wings with dark veins, and a distinctive black 'tail' tuft. It is a wasp mimic and is often found near its host plants.
Description
A medium-sized, black clearwing moth with mostly transparent wings, dark veins, and iridescent blue, purple, and yellow scales, particularly on the wing tips and body. It possesses a prominent black anal tuft.
