One-eyed Sphinx
Common NameOne-eyed Sphinx
Scientific NameSmerinthus cerisyi
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilySmerinthinae
Wingspan (mm)85
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, pink, blue, black
HabitatWoodlands, riparian areas, shrublands, forest edges
Geographic RangeNorth America (southern Canada, western and central US, Mexico)
Host Plantswillow, poplar, aspen, birch, alder
Flight PeriodMay to August
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants. Larvae are green with white stripes and a caudal horn, feeding on leaves. Pupation occurs in an underground chamber, with adults emerging later.
Identification TipsDistinguished by the single, large, blue-centered eyespot on each hindwing, which is typically revealed when the moth is disturbed. The forewings have a wavy, cryptic pattern.
Description
A robust moth with mottled brown and grey forewings that provide camouflage. Its hindwings, often concealed at rest, feature a prominent pinkish-red patch with a single large, blue-centered, black-ringed eyespot.
