Other Common Names
Polka-dot Wasp Moth, Oleander Caterpillar
Synonyms and other taxonomic changes
Taxonomy is being revised...
Syntomeida epilais
Size
wingspan about 43 mm, based on Moth Photographers Group specimen
Caterpillars to about 2"
Identification
Day-flying. Adult moth largely dark metallic blue, with white spots on the wings and body and red-tipped abdomen.
Caterpillars to about 2", orange with black tufts of hair.
Range
Neotropical: all parts of FL except NW.
(1)
Since Covell was published, it's been found in
Texas,
South Carolina and Mississippi.
Featured Creatures lists its range as "Florida and coastal regions of southeastern states."
Habitat
Caterpillars are a common on Oleanders and adults are often found nectaring nearby.
Food
Larvae feed on Oleander (
Nerium oleander), Desert Rose (
Adenium species), Devil's Potato (
Echites umbellata) and perhaps other members of the Dogbane Family (Apocynaceae). Adults nectar on flowers, particularly members of the Asteraceae.
Print References
Goldstein, J.A. & R.B. Simmons. 2005. A morphological revision of the tiger moth genus Syntomeida Harris. (Lepidoptera: Noctuoidea: Arctiidae: Arctiinae: Euchromiini). Poster. ESA Annual Meeting, Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Internet References
Amazing series of life history photos - Claudine and Pierre Guezennec, Guadeloupe (captions in French)
