Clearwing Persimmon Borer Moth(Female)

Description:

Family Sesiidae. Sesiid moths are most distinctive. They look like wasps with narrow clear wings & a large banded body. They have prominent ocelli, the proboscis is unscaled & the palpi are directed forward & slightly upwards. They are diurnal (active during the day), & will visit flowers. The larvae feed in galls on Exocarpos cupressiformis (Native Cherry) & in the bark of trees such as , Eucalypt & Ficus. The moths are day-flying, but rarely seen.

Habitat:

Most Australian species inhabit rainforest. Found from Cairns, Queensland to Melbourne, Victoria. This particular moth was seen in my own suburban backyard.