More chunky delights...

A few more highlights, as promised. Had been a while since I'd seen this huge geometrid so it was with some relief that the single individual that graced one of the lights was in close to mint condition. This is the impressive Epimecis hortaria, or Tulip-Tree Beauty. The adults are on the wing mostly late May to July here in Ontario and the larvae feed on pawpaw, poplars, sassafras and, of course, tulip-tree. Is one of those moths that needs to be seen in life to appreciate.


Flashy tiger moths are always a crowd pleaser. This one is Apantesis nais, the Nais Tiger Moth. I'd only seen a couple before and the two we caught this night where new for the site species list. It is a medium-sized tiger that flies between late May and August. The larvae feed on a variety of grasses and low plants. As with all tigers particular attention needs to be directed to the exact pattern on the forewing - though some species are highly variable - and the color and pattern of the hindwing.


Chunky, even by prominent standards, the lovely Peridea basitriens, or Oval-based Prominent is quite a striking creature. Not colorful at all but uniquely marked. It is common in wooded areas. The adults fly mostly late May to late August in Ontario.


Speaking of uniqueness, Nerice bidentata, or Double-toothed Prominent certainly fits the bill nicely. It is always scarce for some reason and I commented to Mike that I've never seen more that one on any given night. Well, of course, we saw two this night! Anyway, is a beautiful creature that flies between May and August. The larvae feed on elms.


Finally, one of the more unusual moths of the night, the snouty Phyllodesma americana, or Lappet Moth. No description is required for this unique character though it should be said that they are somewhat variable in overall color - some being bright orange. They fly May to September in two broods and the larvae feed on a variety of trees and members of the rose family.