Mothers, As we all know, sometimes it is frustratingly difficult to separate some closely related species. In this particular case, I was going back and forth between the One-spotted Variant (Hypagyrtis unipunctata) #6654 and Esther Moth (H. esther) #6655. Assuming this image is of two mating individuals of the same species, the melanistic form on top has smooth, non-patchy wings indicative of Esther Moth. The bottom (typical form) individual has more mottling on the wings suggestive of One-spotted Variant. I actually photographed the melanistic moth earlier in the night while it was alone and thought for sure I had an Esther. Later, I caught him/her in a more amorous mood and I was totally confused because to me the bottom moth looks more like a lightly mottled One-spotted Variant. Most of the Variants I see here are more heavily mottled but there is tremendous variation in this species and some look for all the world like Esthers. So after a lot of going back and forth I've decided that both are Esther Moths but if anyone has another opinion, I'd love to hear it. It goes to show you can never be totally certain and in this case the moths made sure I stayed confused! BTW, has anyone seen any of the melanistic forms--of either species? It is a first for me. Merrill -- J. Merrill Lynch Echo Valley Farm Watauga County, NC Elevation: 3,400 feet
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