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Giant sphinx
Cocytius antaeus (Drury, 1773)
Attributes of Cocytius antaeusFamily: Sphinx Moths, Hawkmoths (Sphingidae) Subfamily: Sphinginae (Sphinginae) Identification: Females are much larger than males. Forewing is a blurry yellowish gray. Hindwing is dark gray with yellow at the base and a dark "tooth" projecting from the margin into the translucent area between each vein. Life history: Females lay eggs singly on leaves of various species of Annona. Caterpillars are large and have a horn at the rear end. Flight: . Several broods throughout the year in south Florida. Wing span: 5 - 7 inches (12.6 - 17.8 cm). Caterpillar hosts: Custard apple (Annona glabra). Adult food: Flower nectar. Habitat: Tropical and subtropical lowlands. Range: Resident in Florida and tropical America south to Brazil, rare in South Texas, strays as far north as Chicago. Conservation: Population status and habitat requirements should be studied in Florida. NatureServe Global Status: G5 - Demonstrably secure globally, though it may be quite rare in parts of its range, especially at the periphery. Management needs: None reported. | Documented Records for Cocytius antaeus
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