Ash Borer
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| iAsh Borer | ||||||||||||||
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| Podosesia syringae Harris, 1839 |
The Ash Borer (Podosesia syringae), aka Lilac Borer, is a clearwing moth in the family Sesiidae. It is found throughout the United States east of the Rocky Mountains.
The black and yellow bands, prominent antenna and hind legs, and overall body shape of the Ash Borer are similar to those of the common wasp (Vespula vulgaris). The Ash Borer is distinguished from the wasp in that it is somewhat larger, growing to a length of ¾ to 1½ inches (2–4 cm), is amber-colored in addition to black and yellow, and lacks a stinger.
When an potential predator encounters the Ash Borer, it may refrain from conflict mistakenly thinking that it may be stung. Thus the Ash Borer benefits from its similar appearance to a more dangerous foe, making it a is a Batesian mimic of the wasp.
Ash Borer larvae feed on European Ash (Fraxinus excelsior), lilac, privet and mountain ash.
Not to be confused with the Emerald Ash Borer, the larvae of which beetle also consume the bark of Ash trees.
