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Empyreuma pugione (Linnaeus, 1767)
Spotted Oleander Caterpillar Moth
Synonym(s): Empyreuma affinis
Not native to Florida
This day-flying moth can be seen year-round in the central and southern peninsula of Florida. It is native to the Caribbean ranging through the Greater Antillies and first reported in Florida in 1978.
The wings are reddish with chocolate-brown tips. The body is dark bluish-black with white spots on the abdomen. The larvae are hairy and bright orange. The larval host is oleander, although found on less frequently than the oleander caterpillar (Syntomeida epilais var. jucundissima)
Empyreuma pugione is a member of the Arctiidae - Tiger moths family.
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Date record last modified: Dec 13, 2023
