Oenotrus Sphinx
Common NameOenotrus Sphinx
Scientific NameErinnyis oenotrus
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilyMacroglossinae
Wingspan (mm)85
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, orange, black
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, disturbed areas, gardens
Geographic RangeSouthern United States (Florida, Texas, Arizona), Mexico, Central America, South America
Host PlantsTabernaemontana, Rauvolfia, Carica papaya
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropics; May to November in subtropical regions
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically green or brown with a prominent horn at the posterior end, feeding on various Apocynaceae and Caricaceae. Pupation occurs in a shallow burrow in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsKey features include the cryptic grey-brown forewings and the striking orange hindwings with a black border, which are revealed during flight. Its large size and robust body are typical of hawk moths.
Description
A large hawk moth characterized by its mottled grey-brown forewings, which provide excellent camouflage, contrasting sharply with bright orange hindwings bordered in black, visible during flight.
