Grapeleaf skeletonizer (likely, adult moth)

Natural Habitat

Vineyards, deciduous forests, and areas where its host plants (primarily grapevines and Virginia creeper) are present. Adults are often seen flying during the day.

Diet & Feeding

Adult moths do not feed, or they may sip nectar. The larvae (caterpillars) are voracious feeders on the leaves of grapevines (Vitis spp.) and Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia), skeletonizing the leaves by eating the tissue between the veins.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are day-flying moths, typically active from late spring through fall, with two to three generations per year. They are often confused with wasps due to their dark bodies and reddish markings. Females lay eggs in clusters on the underside of host plant leaves. The larvae are distinctly colored (yellowish with black bands and tufts of black hairs) and feed in cohesive groups, moving across the leaf in a line, which is characteristic of their 'skeletonizing' behavior. They pupate in silken cocoons in leaf litter or on the host plant.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks: The larvae are considered a significant pest in vineyards, as their feeding can defoliate grapevines, reducing grape yield and plant vigor. In home gardens, they can damage Virginia creeper, though this is usually less critical. Potential benefits: As part of the ecosystem, they are a food source for various predators and parasites. However, their pest status often outweighs perceived benefits.

Identified on: 10/30/2025