Cuban Sphinx
Common NameCuban Sphinx
Scientific NameErinnyis ello
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilyMacroglossinae
Wingspan (mm)80
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, black, orange
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, open woodlands, gardens, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeSouthern United States (Florida, Texas, Arizona), Mexico, Central America, South America, Caribbean
Host PlantsManihot esculenta, Jatropha, Ricinus communis, Tabernaemontana
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; late spring to fall in temperate areas (migratory)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are typically green or brown with eyespots, feeding on various plants before pupating in loose cocoons underground or in leaf litter. Multiple generations occur annually.
Identification TipsKey features include the cryptic grey and brown forewings, the grey head and thorax with a dark central stripe, and the striking orange-red banding on the abdomen, which is often revealed during flight or when disturbed.
Description
A robust, medium-to-large moth with mottled grey and brown forewings, a grey head and thorax, and a distinctive abdomen featuring prominent orange-red bands on a dark background.
