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Photo#65951
Melittia species? - Eichlinia cucurbitae

Melittia species? - Eichlinia cucurbitae
Fairfield, Wayne County, Illinois, USA
June 28, 2006
I can't find a match for this in our images or on the web. I found it nectaring on White Milkweed. The next morning it was resting bedewed on New England Aster nearby and returned to the milkweed to nectar before flying off.

Images of this individual: tag all
Melittia species? - Eichlinia cucurbitae Melittia species? - Eichlinia cucurbitae

I Think This Is....
2536 - Squash Vine Borer Moth - Melittia cucurbitae. It is the only species in the genus whose range includes Illinois (MONA Fascicle 5.1). Next closest is western Kansas. I think it is the only Melittia to have black spots dorsally on abdominal segments. Your specimen appears to be just a dark (or worn?) specimen.

 
Thanks
Bob. It's the only individual I've seen around. I'll just have to watch and wait for a "better" specimen.

 
It's a Great Specimen...
...it shows variation whether it is worn or not. It is also a superb photo.

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