Elegant Sphinx
Common NameElegant Sphinx
Scientific NameSphingicampa eleganta
FamilySaturniidae
SubfamilyCeratocampinae
Wingspan (mm)85
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black, white
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States (Maryland south to Florida, west to Texas and Oklahoma)
Host Plantsoak, maple, hickory, sweetgum
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically green with yellow stripes and red spots, feeding on various deciduous trees. They pupate in an underground chamber, emerging as adults the following year.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its robust body, the specific pattern of dark lines and a pale, somewhat wavy subterminal band on the forewings, and the overall mottled grey-brown coloration.
Description
A large, robust moth with cryptically patterned forewings in mottled shades of grey, brown, and black, featuring prominent dark lines and a pale subterminal band.
