Western Poplar Sphinx
Common NameWestern Poplar Sphinx
Scientific NamePachysphinx occidentalis
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilySmerinthinae
Wingspan (mm)95
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorstan, brown, pale yellow
HabitatRiparian woodlands, cottonwood groves, urban and suburban areas with host trees
Geographic RangeWestern North America, from southern Canada through the western United States to northern Mexico
Host PlantsPopulus, Salix
Flight PeriodMay to September
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are large green hornworms that feed on the leaves of poplar and willow. They pupate in an underground chamber in the soil.
Identification TipsKey features include its large size, the distinctive wavy and mottled pattern on the forewings, and the deeply scalloped outer margin of the hindwings. The hidden pinkish hindwing with a blue eyespot is diagnostic when visible.
Description
A large, robust moth with mottled tan to pale brown forewings featuring wavy, darker lines and a scalloped outer margin. The hindwings, often hidden, are typically pinkish with a prominent blue eyespot.
