Swainson's Sphinx
Common NameSwainson's Sphinx
Scientific NameIsognathus swainsonii
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilyMacroglossinae
Wingspan (mm)80
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, orange, black
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, gardens, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeCentral America, South America (from Mexico south to Brazil and Bolivia)
Host PlantsPlumeria, Tabernaemontana, Ficus
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae are typically green or brown with a caudal horn, feeding on host plants before pupating in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the cryptic brown forewings contrasting sharply with the bright orange hindwings that have a prominent black band. The typical robust body and streamlined shape of a hawk moth are also characteristic.
Description
This is a robust hawk moth with mottled brown and grey forewings that provide excellent camouflage. Its hindwings are a striking bright orange with a broad black marginal band, visible when the moth is in flight or disturbed.
