Pseudothyris sepulchralis explained

Pseudothyris sepulchralis, the mournful thyris, is a species of day-flying[1] moth in the family Thyrididae and can be found throughout North America.[2] They have a flight duration of 2–3 weeks. The adults are rarely found on flowering plants for feeding.

Description

The larva is about 18mm in length. As an adult, its wingspan is around NaNmm and its body is black with white spots and marks.[3]

The larvae feed on Smilax species.[4]

Pupae

The larva cuts an almost perfect circle into a leaf, before rolling itself in it, creating a pouch shaped cocoon and hibernating in it until the following year.

Notes and References

  1. Thiele . J. H. R. . 1997-09-01 . Anmerkungen zur Biologie und Verbreitung von Pseudothyris sepulchralis (Lepidoptera: Thyrididae). . Holarctic Lepidoptera . en . 55–60 . 1070-4140.
  2. Web site: (Thyris sepulchralis) | Idaho Fish and Game. idfg.idaho.gov.
  3. Web site: MOURNFUL THYRIS. February 19, 2019. Fontenelle Forest Nature Search.
  4. Book: Heppner, J.B. . Arthropods of Florida and Neighboring Land Areas: Lepidoptera of Florida . Florida Department of Agriculture . 2003 . 17.