Grapevine Epimenis Moth (Psychomorpha epimenis)
Detailing the physical features, habits, territorial reach and other identifying qualities of the Grapevine Epimenis Moth.
Updated: 4/18/2018; Authored By Staff Writer; Content ©www.InsectIdentification.org
Grapevine Epimenis Moth
Often mistaken for a butterfly, Grapevine Epimenis Moths are springtime flyers with bold colors and a fondness for flowers.
Grapevine Epimenis Moths are mostly black with a velvety luster or sheen. The end of each forewing has a single, large white spot. When spread open, each black hindwing reveals a long, vibrant red-orange spot along the end of the wing. They drink nectar from tree and shrubs in the cherry, swamprivet, hawthorn, and redbud families.
The caterpillar of the Grapevine Epimenis has a red-orange head covered in black speckles. A second red-orange area is near the rear. This has two round black spots that mimic eyes, making it difficult to determine which end is truly a face. The rest of its fleshy body and rear end is covered in thin rings, or bands, of black and white. Caterpillars eat the end buds on grapevines and can be found in vineyards as well as backyards. They often curl a leaf upward and form a type of hammock using their own silk to bind and secure the leaf. Look for activity in spring and early summer.
