Achemon Sphinx
Common NameAchemon Sphinx
Scientific NameEumorpha achemon
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilyMacroglossinae
Wingspan (mm)90
Primary Colorsbrown, dark brown, pink
HabitatWoodlands, open fields, gardens, vineyards
Geographic RangeSouthern Canada, eastern and central United States, extending west to California and Arizona, and south into Mexico
Host Plantsgrape, Virginia creeper
Flight PeriodMay to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are large caterpillars, typically green or brown, with a reduced horn or button on the posterior end. They feed on host plants and pupate in an underground chamber.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive large, dark brown, somewhat rectangular patch on the forewing and the overall mottled brown coloration. The bright pink hindwings are a key feature if observed during flight or when the moth is disturbed.
Description
A large, robust hawk-moth with cryptic brown forewings featuring prominent dark brown patches and lines, and a stout body. The hindwings, though often concealed, are bright pink with a dark border.
