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Laurel sphinx
Sphinx kalmiae J.E. Smith, 1797
Attributes of Sphinx kalmiaeFamily: Sphinx Moths, Hawkmoths (Sphingidae) Subfamily: Sphinginae (Sphinginae) Identification: Forewing is yellowish brown with a thin whitish line along the outer margin and a black patch along the inner margin. Hindwing is tan with a black border, black median line, and black patch at the base. Life history: Fully-grown caterpillars pupate in cells dug in loose soil. Caterpillars of the second brood pupate and overwinter. Flight: . Probably two broods from March-October. Wing span: 2 15/16 - 4 1/16 inches (7.5 - 10.3 cm). Caterpillar hosts: Laurel (Kalmia latifolia), lilac (Syringa vulgaris), fringe tree (Chionanthus virginicus), privet (Ligustrum), ash (Fraxinus), poplar (Populus), mountain holly (Nemopanthus mucronatus), and northern bush honeysuckle (Diervilla lonicera). Adult food: Bouncing bet (Saponaria officinalis) and Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica). Habitat: Not reported. Range: Newfoundland and Maine west to Manitoba and North Dakota; south to Alabama and Louisiana. Conservation: Not usually required. 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 Sphinx kalmiae
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