Description

• Ascalapha odorata, the black witch, is one of the largest moths in the Americas, belonging to the family Erebidae. Adults have broad, pointed wings that are dark brown to nearly black, often with fine wavy lines, purplish or reddish reflections, and pale zigzag markings. A distinctive small, pale or silvery spot occurs on each forewing. The wingspan commonly reaches 12–18 cm, with females generally larger than males.

Range

• Ascalapha odorata is widespread from the southern United States through Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, and much of South America. It occurs throughout tropical Mexico, including Zihuatanejo, Guerrero.

Habitat

• It inhabits tropical and subtropical forest, seasonally dry woodland, scrub, plantations, gardens, and urban areas. Adults are primarily nocturnal, often resting on tree trunks and walls during the day and being attracted to artificial lights at night.

Diet

• The caterpillars feed on the foliage of numerous trees and shrubs, particularly legumes such as Acacia, Albizia, Cassia, and Samanea. Adults feed on nectar, fruit juices, tree sap, and other sugary liquids.