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Wild cherry sphinx
Sphinx drupiferarum J.E. Smith, 1797
Attributes of Sphinx drupiferarumFamily: Sphinx Moths, Hawkmoths (Sphingidae) Subfamily: Sphinginae (Sphinginae) Identification: Upperside of forewing is dark gray with a white band along the costa and one along the outer margin. Hindwing is dark gray with 2 whitish bands. Life history: Caterpillars hide during the day and feed at night. Fully-grown caterpillars pupate and overwinter in underground burrows. Flight: . One brood from May-July. Wing span: 3 1/4 - 4 5/16 inches (8.2 - 11 cm). Caterpillar hosts: Wild cherry and plum (Prunus species) lilac (Syringa vulgaris), hackberry (Celtis occidentalis), and apple (Malus sylvestris). Adult food: Nectar from deep-throated flowers including Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica). Habitat: A wide variety of wooded habitats and suburbs. Range: Uncommon in its range. Nova Scotia south to Georgia; west through most of the United States and southern Canada to British Columbia and central California. 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 drupiferarum
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