Synanthedon acerni
Family Sesiidae
Photograph copyright by Tony Leukering
20 June 2012
Belleplain State Forest HQ
CMMP block F09
Distribution map
Distribution map
The family Sesiidae, the Clearwing Borers, is an interesting moth family, members of which are often mistaken for hymenopterans (bees, wasps), which is, of course, the idea. They are primarily day-flying species, though this post's subject is the only such species that somewhat regularly comes to lights at night. As indicated by both the species' common and species names, the larvae consume maple. However, they do not eat leaves, but wood, boring into twigs, roots, branches, and trunks. The quite-similar-looking species Red Maple Borer (2546) has a more extensive black forewing tip and only one black patch on the interior of the forewing. And it does not come to lights at night. The various species of the family are difficult to locate, despite being diurnal beasts. Careful scrutiny of larger flowering plants, such as Joe-pyeweed, dogbane, and milkweed, may reveal their presence.
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