Lettered Sphinx
Common NameLettered Sphinx
Scientific NameDeidamia inscriptum
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilyMacroglossinae
Wingspan (mm)55
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, gray, dark brown
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, forest edges, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia west to Manitoba and south to Florida and Texas
Host Plantsgrape, Virginia creeper, hawthorn, cherry, elm
Flight PeriodApril to July
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically green with white stripes and a caudal horn, feeding on various woody plants. They pupate in the soil, overwintering as pupae.
Identification TipsKey features include the mottled brown and gray forewings with subtle darker bands, and its relatively small size compared to other sphinx moths. The hindwings are a duller brown.
Description
This is a medium-sized moth with mottled brown and gray forewings, often displaying darker, indistinct bands. Its robust, hairy body is typical of sphinx moths.
