Yellow-Collared Scape Moth (Cisseps fulvicollis)
The yellow-collared scrape moth is an Erebidae moth found in North America. It is recognizable from its unique yellow collar that gives it its name and is very similar to the Virginia ctenucha.
i.pinimg.com
Scientific Classification
- Family: Erebidae
- Genus: Cisseps
- Scientific Name: Cisseps fulvicollis
Description and Identification
Caterpillar
The larvae are yellow, brown, or black with dark stripes on their backs and yellow or orange stripes on both sides. Their bodies are sparsely colored with long and soft hairs.
marylandbiodiversity.com
Pupa
Pupae are orangish-yellow and covered with brown markings. They pupate in cocoons of discarded setae from the larval stage.
Adult Moth
Sexual Dimorphism: Present but not prominent.
Color and Appearance
Forewing: When the wings are opened, they are black or dark brown. When the wings are closed, the colors remain observable.
Hindwing: When the wings are opened, a translucent patch, either bluish, pale grayish, or white, can be seen on a black background. When the wings are closed, the patch is no longer observable.
Average wingspan: 2.9-3.7 cm
Flight pattern: Erratic
Season: Late spring and summer
marylandbiodiversity.com
Egg
Females lay their eggs close to the host plant.
Quick Facts
| Distribution | North America |
| Habitat | Fields with flowering plants |
| Lifespan of Adults | Not recorded |
| Host Plants | Grasses, lichens, and spike-rushes |
| Adult Diet | Nectar from flowers |
Did You Know
- There are two sub-species – Cisseps fulvicollis fulvicollis and Cisseps fulvicollis pallens.
urbanwildlifeguide.net
mdc.mo.gov
Scientific Classification
- Family: Erebidae
- Genus: Cisseps
- Scientific Name: Cisseps fulvicollis
