The Clymene Moth - Black & Yellow Moth with a Cross

Sometimes I am blessed to find a beautiful creature in my own backyard.  Such was the case with the Clymene Moth.  He was such a lovely creature that I simply had to take his picture to share with the world.

The black cross he bears on his wings is almost spiritually symbolic. It immediately reminded me of a crusaders cross. Perhaps more so because the shape of the resting wings resembles a shield.

I felt I was being visited by an important messenger.  His message may have been nothing more than a reminder to stop and look at the unique beauty around us, but I felt blessed.

Facts About the Clymene Moth 

Scientific Name:  Haploa Clymene

• Classification Tribe:  Arctiini (Tiger Moths)
• Wingspan:  1 1/2 - 2 inches
• Lives in Deciduous Wooded Areas / Forest or close-by 
• Larvae eats plants that are poisonous to humans (Ageratina altissima and Eupatorium) 
• Larvae (caterpillar) overwinter and eat willow, peach and oak tree
• Adult Moth Life:  Early Spring to Late Summer  (My photo was taken in July)
• Mostly Found in Eastern United States ranging from Florida all the way up to Quebec, Canada

Photos of the Clymene Moth by Sylvestermouse 

Both Photos Taken July, 2015

Attract Moths to Your Backyard

We all attract moths to our backyards by simply turning on a back porch light.  However, if you would like to do a bit of moth-watching, there is a way to attract them when you desire their company.  Oh, and be sure you have your camera ready.

Recipe for Moth Appeal

• 1 or 2 overripe bananas 
• 1 cup brown sugar 
• 6 ounces of stale beer 

Stir the ingredients together until well-blended.  Let warm at room temperature.  It is actually best, but not necessary, if left for several days under a breathable cloth.  (like a sour dough bread recipe)

When ready, simply brush the mixture on the trunk of a tree and wait for your "friends" to arrive.

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Learn More about Moths

 The Illustrated World Encyclopedia of Butterflies and Moths: A Natural History and Identification GuideCheck Price

 

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