Nessus Sphinx
Common NameNessus Sphinx
Scientific NameAmphion floridensis
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilyMacroglossinae
Wingspan (mm)55
Primary Colorsdark brown, reddish-brown, yellow, orange
HabitatOpen woodlands, forest edges, fields, gardens
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsgrape, Virginia creeper, evening primrose
Flight PeriodApril to September
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are typically green or brown with a horn at the rear, feeding on grape and Virginia creeper. They pupate in a shallow burrow in the soil.
Identification TipsKey features include the broad pale yellow or white band across the abdomen, reddish-orange patches on the hindwings, and the distinctive fan-like tail at the end of the abdomen. Often active during the day, flying rapidly.
Description
A medium-sized, robust moth with dark reddish-brown forewings and hindwings featuring reddish-orange patches. Its abdomen is marked by a prominent pale yellow or white band and a fan-like tail.
