Laurel Sphinx
Common NameLaurel Sphinx
Scientific NameSphingulus mus
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilySmerinthinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, white, black
HabitatForests, woodlands, gardens, and areas with host plants.
Geographic RangeEastern Asia (China, Korea, Japan, Russian Far East).
Host PlantsFraxinus, Syringa, Ligustrum
Flight PeriodMay to August
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants, developing into green hornworm larvae. Pupation typically occurs in the soil.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive cryptic forewing pattern with a mix of light and dark brown, a prominent dark streak along the costa, and a clearly striped abdomen.
Description
A robust moth characterized by its cryptic forewing pattern of mottled brown and white with prominent dark brown bands and streaks, and a distinctly striped abdomen.
