Hubbard's Silk Moth
Common NameHubbard's Silk Moth
Scientific NameSyssphinx hubbardi
FamilySaturniidae
SubfamilyCeratocampinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, red, orange, black
HabitatDeserts, arid scrublands, mesquite woodlands
Geographic RangeSouthwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, southern California, Nevada, Utah) and northern Mexico
Host Plantsmesquite, acacia, palo verde
Flight PeriodApril to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically spiny and feed on host plants like mesquite. Pupation occurs in the soil. Adults are short-lived and do not feed, focusing solely on reproduction.
Identification TipsLook for the cryptic grey-brown forewings with a small white spot, contrasting sharply with the bright reddish-orange hindwings that each display a single large black eyespot, often revealed when disturbed.
Description
A medium-to-large moth with mottled grey-brown forewings featuring a small white discal spot, and striking reddish-orange hindwings each bearing a prominent black eyespot.
