White-lined Sphinx
Common NameWhite-lined Sphinx
Scientific NameHyles lineata
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilyMacroglossinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, white, black
HabitatDeserts, grasslands, gardens, open woodlands, urban areas
Geographic RangeWidespread across North and Central America, parts of South America, Europe, Asia, and Africa
Host Plantsevening primrose, grape, fuchsia, willow weed, purslane, tomato, apple, elm
Flight PeriodMultiple broods, typically spring to fall (May to October in temperate regions)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically green or black with yellow spots and a horn at the rear, feeding on a wide variety of plants. They pupate underground, and the species has multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive broad, buff-white diagonal stripe on the dark brown forewings and the prominent white stripes on the thorax. They are often seen hovering like hummingbirds at flowers.
Description
A medium to large moth with a streamlined body and pointed wings. Its forewings are dark brown with a prominent buff-white diagonal stripe and several white veins, while the thorax features distinct white stripes.
