Ailanthus Web-worm Moth

Ailanthus Web-worm Moth
Ailanthus webworm moth on goldenrod
The #ailanthus web-worm #moth is another day #flying moth. It has a pretty pattern of #orange, black and white and keeps the wings folded, so that it looks like a little cigar and may be mistaken by a beetle. It is small, the wing span can range between 1.5-8 and 2.2-8”. It has become more abundant and widespread in recent years because its caterpillar used to feed on a tree common in Florida, the #paradise tree. When the tree of heaven or Ailanthus altissima, was introduced from China the #caterpillar adapted to this new species. Now it is found in many states where this #tree is used as an ornamental. The caterpillars stay in groups and build webbed nests.
Habitat. #Meadows, #gardens, #forest edges
Season. March to November, most common between August and September
Flowers. Many kinds, members of the aster family, such as #goldenrod, also #milkweeds
#flora #flower butterflygarden #learning #insectsofinstagram #entomology #insecta #mothernature #butterflies
#beautiful #cute #spring #scene #jamaica
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