Maple Callus Borer

When I first saw this critter, I was uncertain as to whether it was a fly, a moth, a butterfly or some type of wasp. Fortunately, the good people at Bug Guide (www.bugguide.net) knew exactly what this was. This is a Maple Callus Borer, Synanthedon acerni, a type of moth. This moth was found resting on a leaf at Awenda Provincial Park in Penetanguishene, Ontario in July of this year.

Juicy Tidbits

Is a clearwing moth.
Has a notable red tuft at the tip of its abdomen.
Host for these moths are maple trees. Trees can be significantly damaged over time by the larvae. Silver, Red and Sugar Maples are favourite host trees.
Found throughout North America.
Moths fly from April to August.



Check out these sites for more information on the Maple Callus Borer:

Bugwood Wiki: http://wiki.bugwood.org/Archive:Borers/Synanthedon_acerni


Bug Guide: http://bugguide.net/node/view/10962

North American Moths blog: http://moths.wordpress.com/2010/04/01/maple-callus-borer/

Butterflies and Moths of North America: http://www.butterfliesandmoths.org/species/Synanthedon-acerni