Rustic Sphinx
Common NameRustic Sphinx
Scientific NameManduca rustica
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilySphinginae
Wingspan (mm)120
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsblack, white, grey
HabitatOpen woodlands, forest edges, suburban areas, gardens, agricultural fields
Geographic RangeSouthern United States, Mexico, Central America, and parts of South America
Host Plantsash, lilac, privet, jasmine, lantana, catalpa
Flight PeriodMarch to November (multiple broods)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are large hornworms, typically green or brown with diagonal stripes and a prominent horn, which pupate in an underground chamber.
Identification TipsKey features include its large size, the intricate mottled black, white, and grey forewing pattern with prominent zig-zagging white bands, and two distinct yellow-orange spots on each side of the abdomen (not visible dorsally).
Description
A large, robust moth with a highly cryptic pattern of mottled black, white, and grey on its forewings, featuring distinct zig-zagging white bands. The hindwings are typically darker with lighter bands.
