Satellite Sphinx
Common NameSatellite Sphinx
Scientific NameEumorpha satellitia
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilyMacroglossinae
Wingspan (mm)105
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, dark brown
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, woodlands, gardens, and disturbed areas.
Geographic RangeSouthern United States (Florida, Texas, Arizona), Mexico, Central America, and South America.
Host PlantsVitis, Cissus, Ampelopsis, Ludwigia
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; May to November in subtropical North America.
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are large, typically green or brown with a caudal horn, feeding on various host plants before pupating in the soil. Adults are nocturnal and strong fliers.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinctive pattern of dark brown patches and smaller, rounder 'satellite' spots on the forewings, which give it its common name. The overall cryptic brown coloration helps it blend with tree bark.
Description
A large, robust sphinx moth with cryptic brown and tan forewings featuring prominent dark brown patches and a series of small, dark 'satellite' spots. The hindwings are typically darker brown.
