Van Buskirk's Sphinx
Common NameVan Buskirk's Sphinx
Scientific NameSphinx vanbuskirki
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilySphinginae
Wingspan (mm)80
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgray, white, black, orange
HabitatPine forests, mixed pine-oak forests
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States (Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, South Carolina, North Carolina)
Host PlantsPinus palustris, Pinus taeda, Pinus elliottii
Flight PeriodMarch to April, July to August (multiple broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically green with white stripes and a caudal horn, feeding on pine needles. Pupation occurs in the soil.
Identification TipsLook for the specific pattern of dark streaks and a prominent white costal stripe on the forewings. The orange/yellow lateral abdominal bands are also a key distinguishing feature, though not always fully visible from a dorsal view.
Description
A large, robust hawk moth with mottled gray and white forewings featuring prominent dark streaks and a distinct white costal stripe. The stout abdomen is gray with black and orange/yellow bands visible laterally.
