Nyceryx riscus
Common NameNyceryx riscus
Scientific NameNyceryx riscus
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilyMacroglossinae
Wingspan (mm)55
Primary Colorsbrown, reddish-brown, dark brown
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges
Geographic RangeMexico to Bolivia and Brazil
Host PlantsRubiaceae, Apocynaceae
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae are typically stout with a caudal horn, feeding on host plants before pupating in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsKey features include the mottled brown forewing pattern, the small dark discal spot, and the distinct dark submarginal band on the hindwings, combined with the robust hawk moth body shape.
Description
A medium-sized hawk moth with mottled brown forewings featuring a small dark discal spot, and hindwings with a prominent dark brown to black submarginal band. Its cryptic coloration provides excellent camouflage against bark or dead leaves.
