Small Verdant Hawkmoth
Common NameSmall Verdant Hawkmoth
Scientific NameEumorpha phorbas
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilyMacroglossinae
Wingspan (mm)85
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorsgreen, orange, brown
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings, gardens
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America (from Mexico south to Brazil and Argentina), occasionally straying into southern US
Host PlantsVitis, Cissus, Ampelopsis, Eupatorium
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; May to October in subtropical areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically green or brown, often with eyespots, feeding on various vines. They pupate in a burrow underground.
Identification TipsThe unique combination of bright green forewings and body with orange hindwings (visible in flight or at rest if wings are spread) makes it distinctive among hawkmoths.
Description
This is a striking hawkmoth characterized by its bright green forewings and body, contrasting sharply with its vibrant orange hindwings that feature a dark brown outer margin.
