Azalea Sphinx
Common NameAzalea Sphinx
Scientific NameDarapsa choerilus
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilyMacroglossinae
Wingspan (mm)70
Primary Colorsreddish-brown, white
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, forests, suburban areas, and gardens
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia west to Manitoba and south to Florida and Texas
Host Plantsazalea, rhododendron, blueberry, sourwood, viburnum
Flight PeriodMay to August
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are typically green or brown with a rough texture and a prominent horn at the rear. They pupate in a shallow burrow in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive reddish-brown coloration with a broad, darker median band on the forewings and the prominent white stripe on the thorax. Its robust body and typical sphinx moth shape are also key indicators.
Description
This is a medium-sized, robust moth with a reddish-brown body and wings. Its forewings feature a broad, darker reddish-brown median band, contrasting with lighter reddish-brown areas at the base and outer margin, and a prominent white stripe runs down the center of its thorax.
