
Sphinx moth larvae are called hornworms, for a harmless but pronounced “horn” on the dorsal side of their hind ends. In fact, some species of hawk moths are mistaken for hummingbirds when they feed on flowers. Otherwise known as sphinx moths, hawk moths are an entire family of moth species that all share similar traits: big bodies, thick fur, and their appetite for nectar. In sphinx moths, the hindwings are markedly smaller than the forewings. Leafy spurge hawk moth caterpillars are, as the name suggests, a species of hawk moth. The top of the hindwing is black with a dark pink band. What kind of moth is black with pink spots? They are one of only a few creatures capable of hovering in flight, like bats and hummingbirds, and are sometimes mistaken for the latter. These large moths are spectacular flyers, with streamlined bodies and wings evolved for speed and agility.

Menu Home Sphinx Moths, Family Sphingidae Search Is the sphinx moth a bat or hummingbird? Members of the family Sphingidae, sphinx moths attract attention with their large size and ability to hover. Are there any moths in the family Sphingidae? The top of the forewing is a dark olive-brown with lighter brown on the margin with a narrow tan band along the wingtip to the base, and white streaks on the veins. Sphinx moths are medium to large in size, with thick bodies and wingspans of 5 inches or more. What kind of body does a sphinx moth have? It is going to be tough to control this larva since it is so large but you can try an insecticide specifically formulated for moth larvae or you could hand pick them off and throw them away. In the United States, we call these creatures sphinx moths but in Europe and Canada they are referred to as Hawk Moths.

Keeping a balanced, organic landscape ensures that many beneficial pollinators, such as the Sphinx Moth, will thrive. While the caterpillars can cause some damage garden plants they’ll also munch on unwanted weeds, such as in the photo. They are quite enjoyable to watch and are excellent pollinators.
