Clark's Sphinx
Common NameClark's Sphinx
Scientific NameHyles gallii
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilyMacroglossinae
Wingspan (mm)70
Primary Colorsolive-green, orange, black
HabitatOpen woodlands, meadows, gardens, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeHolarctic; widespread across Canada and northern US, extending south in mountainous regions
Host Plantsfireweed, evening primrose, bedstraw
Flight PeriodMay to September
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are large, typically green or black with yellow spots and a prominent horn at the rear. Pupation occurs in a shallow burrow in the soil.
Identification TipsKey features include the olive-green thorax and abdomen, a broad pale stripe on the forewing, and the bright orange hindwings with a distinct black band. Often seen hovering at flowers like a hummingbird.
Description
A medium-sized hawk-moth with an olive-green body and prominent antennae. Its forewings are olive-brown with a pale stripe, while the hindwings are striking orange with a black base and margin, visible during flight.
