Snake Mimic Moth
Common NameSnake Mimic Moth
Scientific NameHemeroplanes triptolemus
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilyMacroglossinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black, yellow
HabitatTropical and subtropical rainforests, forest edges
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America (from Mexico south to Brazil, Ecuador, Peru)
Host PlantsGenipa, Coussarea
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are famous for their remarkable defense mechanism, inflating their anterior segments and retracting their head to mimic a snake, complete with 'eyes' and 'scales', to deter predators.
Identification TipsAdults are identified by their cryptic grey-brown forewings and the distinct black and yellow banded abdomen. The specific patterns on the forewings, including white markings, are also characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized hawk moth with mottled grey and brown forewings that provide excellent camouflage, contrasting sharply with a prominent black and yellow banded abdomen.
