Brown and Yellow Sphinx
Common NameBrown and Yellow Sphinx
Scientific NameErinnyis ello
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilyMacroglossinae
Wingspan (mm)80
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsbrown, dark brown, yellowish-orange
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, open woodlands, gardens, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeSouthern United States, Mexico, Central America, South America, Caribbean
Host PlantsManihot esculenta, Hevea brasiliensis, Jatropha, Ricinus communis
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; May to October in temperate zones
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically green or brown with a prominent horn at the rear, feeding on host plants before pupating in leaf litter or shallow soil. Adults emerge to feed on nectar.
Identification TipsKey features include the robust body, pointed forewings with a complex pattern of dark brown and contrasting lighter brown/yellowish-orange bands, and a prominent dark diagonal band across the forewing. Males often have orange hindwings, while females have darker hindwings.
Description
A large, robust moth with a streamlined body and pointed forewings. Its forewings are predominantly dark brown with intricate patterns of lighter brown and yellowish-orange bands and streaks, giving it a cryptic appearance.
