Clearwing Moths (Lepidoptera: Sesiidae)

Adults of the family Sesiidae(formerly Aegeriidae) are called clearwing mothsbecause a part of the wings, especially the hindwings, lacks overlapping scales and is therefore transparent. The body typically is dark-colored, but most species have contrasting yellow, orange, or reddish bands or markings on the abdomen, legs, or both. Males and females often differ in coloration, and in some cases the amount of clear area in the wings. Virtually all species are day-flying. The moths may be seen sipping nectar from flowers or resting on foliage on sunny days. Many adult sesiids bear a striking resemblance to wasps, especially paper wasps (Polistesspp.) or yellow jackets. Being moths, they cannot sting; however, this mimicry doubtless discourages insectivorous birds and other vertebrate predators. The moths’ hovering flight and tendency for some species to move the abdomen in a wasp-like posture contributes to the deception.Sesiid larvae tunnel in living branches, trunks, root collars, or...