What is this
August 9, 2009
Seen this winged insect sitting on an oak leaf, it looked like it had fur on its hind legs.
T. Dunn
N. Illinois
- Squash Vine Borer
Dear T. Dunn,
This is a Clearwing Moth in the family Sesiidae. This family is characterized by wasp mimicry of its members. Your moth is a Squash Vine Borer, Melittia cucurbitae. The larvae bore in the stems of squash, pumpkins and related plants.