Virginia Creeper Sphinx Moth

Description:

The Virginia creeper sphinx (Darapsa myron) is a moth of the Sphingidae family. It lives from Maine south to south Florida; west to North Dakota, Nebraska, New Mexico, and Texas. It also can be found in Mexico. The caterpillars are known to feed on virginia creeper and grape. Family: Sphingidae Subfamily: Macroglossinae Identification: Forewing upperside is dark brown to pale yellowish gray, with an olive tint. On the costal margin is a dark rectangular patch, although this may be reduced or absent. Upperside of hindwing is pale orange. Wing Span: 1 3/4 - 2 9/16 inches (4.5 - 6.5 cm). Life History: Females lay eggs in twos or threes on the underside of host leaves. Eggs hatch in 5 or 6 days and the young caterpillars eat their eggshells. Fully-grown caterpillars spin a loose cocoon in fallen leaves on the ground. Flight: . Several broods throughout the year in Florida, two broods from March-September in the rest of the range. Caterpillar Hosts: Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia), Grape (Vitis), Ampelopsis, and Viburnum. Adult Food: Flower nectar. Habitat: Woodlands and brushy areas. Range: Maine south to south Florida; west to North Dakota, Nebraska, New Mexico, and Texas. Conservation: Not usually required. NCGR: G5 - Demonstrably secure globally, though it may be quite rare in parts of its range, especially at the periphery. Management Needs: None reported.

Habitat:

Woodlands and brushy areas.