Vine Sphinx Moth (Eumorpha vitis)
|
|
The larvae of sphinx moths are called hornworms because most species possess an obvious "horn" on their rear end. A few, however, have only a bump or flattened projection, and one is the Vine Sphinx Moth. The group name for the moths comes from the characteristic pose of many of the caterpillars, in which they hold their front part up and curl their head down, like a sphinx. The vine sphinx caterpillar is capable of withdrawing its head back into its body, as shown in the photo below.
These are large caterpillars, reaching about 3 inches in length. The insect shown at the top is stretched out and resting on a cycad leaf. It has finished eating and is preparing to pupate in a cocoon. The individual shown below is still feeding on one of its preferred host plants, members of the grape family, in this case Sorrelvine (Cissus trifoliata). Like several other sphinx moth larvae, these come in two color phases: bright green and reddish brown.
|
The adult vine sphinx is an attractive nocturnal moth. During the day it rests in protected areas to avoid predators. Sphinx moths' wings move so rapidly that they blur, much like a hummingbird's. They can hover and maneuver with incredible ease. These moths feed on large, night-blooming flowers like those of Jimsonweed (Datura stramonium).
|
class: Insecta / order: Lepidoptera / family: Sphingidae / genus: Eumorpha / species: vitis
| site by larvalbug |
