Scyron Sphinx Moth
Common NameScyron Sphinx Moth
Scientific NameIsognathus scyron
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilyMacroglossinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, orange, black
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, clearings, gardens
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America (from Mexico south to Brazil)
Host PlantsPlumeria, Himatanthus
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically green or brown with lateral stripes and a caudal horn, feeding on host plants from the Apocynaceae family. They pupate in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the cryptic grey-brown forewings, the prominent bright orange median band on the hindwings, and the robust, tapered body typical of hawk-moths. The orange hindwing band is often visible even when the moth is at rest.
Description
A medium-sized hawk-moth with mottled grey-brown forewings that provide camouflage, and striking orange and black hindwings that are revealed during flight or when disturbed. Its robust body is also grey-brown with some orange banding.
