Phorbas Sphinx
Common NamePhorbas Sphinx
Scientific NameEumorpha phorbas
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilyMacroglossinae
Wingspan (mm)100
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsdark green, olive, grey, brown
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, woodlands, gardens
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America, occasionally strays to southern North America (e.g., Florida, Texas)
Host PlantsVitis (grape), Cissus, Philodendron
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; specific periods when straying north
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically green or brown with prominent eyespots, feeding on host plants before pupating in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its large size, robust body, and the specific cryptic pattern of its forewings, which often include a dark median band or patch. Hindwings (not visible dorsally) can be reddish or purplish.
Description
A large, robust hawkmoth with forewings typically olive-green to dark brown, featuring a complex, mottled cryptic pattern that aids in camouflage. The body is stout and tapers to a point.
