Swift-winged Sphinx
Common NameSwift-winged Sphinx
Scientific NameEumorpha fasciatus
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilyMacroglossinae
Wingspan (mm)85
Primary Colorsbrown, dark brown, purplish-brown
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, gardens, coastal areas, often near wetlands or host plants.
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States, Central America, South America, Caribbean; migratory northwards to temperate regions.
Host PlantsLudwigia, Oenothera, Epilobium
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; multiple broods from May to October in temperate zones.
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically green or brown hornworms with a posterior horn, feeding on plants in the evening primrose family. Pupation occurs in the soil.
Identification TipsKey features include the unique scalloped outer margins of the forewings, the prominent dark band across the forewing, and the robust, pointed body. Pink hindwings are often visible in flight.
Description
A robust, medium-to-large hawk-moth with mottled brown forewings featuring darker bands and distinctly scalloped outer margins. The body is stout and tapers to a point.
