Home / Hawk Moths (Sphingidae) / Vine Sphinx Moth (Eumorpha vitis)

Vine Sphinx Moth (Eumorpha vitis)

The vine sphinx moth is a member of the family of hawk moths. Famed Swedish zoologist Carl Linnaeus first described this species in 1758.

Vine Sphinx Moth

Live.staticflickr.com

Scientific Classification


  • Family: Sphingidae
  • Genus: Eumorpha
  • Scientific Name: Eumorpha vitis

Description and Identification

Caterpillar

The larvae can be found in one of three colors – pink, pale green, or lemony green. There are five pairs of diagonal lines along its body, with black dots sometimes being present.

Vine Sphinx Moth Caterpillar

Butterfliesandmoths.org

Pupa

After maturing, the larvae begin to pupate in burrows.

Vine Sphinx Moth Pupa

Butterfliesandmoths.org

Adult Moth

Sexual Dimorphism: Present but not prominent.

The males appear darker and smaller than the females.

Color and Appearance

Forewing: When opened, the wings have sharp pinkish-white bands and streaks. When closed, the patterns remain the same.

Hindwing: When opened, a pink patch is visible along the inner margin and a pale, whitish brown one along the outer margin. When closed, the patterns are still present but less visible.

Average wingspan: 85–105 mm

Flight pattern: Consistent

Season: July to October

Eumorpha vitis

Sphingidae.us

Egg

Females lay their eggs close to the host plant.

Quick Facts

DistributionThe Americas, including Argentina, north through Central America, the West Indies, Mexico, and the states of southern Arizona, Texas, Mississippi, and Florida in the United States.
HabitatTropical and subtropical lowlands
Lifespan of AdultsNot recorded
Host PlantsGrape, grape ivy, sweetbay, vine, and willow primrose
Adult DietNectar from flowers, including rosy periwinkle and orchids.

Did You Know

This moth has three subspecies – Eumorpha vitis vitis, Eumorpha vitis fuscatus, and Eumorpha vitis hesperidum.

Vine Sphinx Moth Image

I.pinimg.com

Vine Sphinx Moth Picture

Observation.org

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *