Lesser Ficus Sphinx
Common NameLesser Ficus Sphinx
Scientific NamePachylia ficus
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilyMacroglossinae
Wingspan (mm)100
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, disturbed areas, gardens
Geographic RangeSouthern Florida, southern Texas, Mexico, Central America, South America, Caribbean
Host PlantsFicus, Artocarpus, Carica papaya, Jacaratia
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; March to November in subtropical areas
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically green or brown with a prominent caudal horn, feeding on fig and related plants before pupating in the soil.
Identification TipsKey features include its large size, overall cryptic brown coloration, and the deeply scalloped outer margin of the hindwings. The forewings display a complex pattern of darker brown bands and mottling.
Description
A large, robust moth with mottled brown wings, a stout body, and a distinctive deeply scalloped outer margin on the hindwings.
