Achemon Sphinx Moths are members of the hawkmoth family. They are large, strong and fast. This species is nocturnal and can be found sipping nectar from a variety of flowers including Japanese honeysuckle, phlox and petunias. Their wings can beat so quickly that they may be mistaken for a hummingbird. They span most of the North American continent and are on the wing throughout the summer.
The larval caterpillar is also brown, like the adult. They are larger than other families of caterpillars. Seven short white lines run diagonally down the side of the hairless body from the head to its other end. It is a part of the hornworm group of caterpillars thanks to a long spine, or "horn" at the end of its body. As the caterpillar grows and matures, the horn is eventually lost and an eyespot develops instead. This species feeds on the leaves of grapevines and is known to be a pest in vineyards. Virginia creeper and woodbine are other popular food sources for this caterpillar. It is usually seen in August and September©ButterflyIdentification.org
The Achemon Sphinx Moth is also known by the name(s) of: Grape Sphinx Moth.
The Achemon Sphinx Moth is typically 3.4 inches to 3.7 inches (87mm to 96mm) in size and has the following descriptors / identifiers: moth, sphinx, brown, pink, flying.
Territorial Area Map (Visual Reference Guide)
The map below showcases (in blue) the states and territories of North America where the Achemon Sphinx Moth may be found (but is not limited to). This sort of data can be useful in seeing concentrations of a particular species over the continent as well as revealing possible migratory patterns over a species' given lifespan. Some species are naturally confined by environment, weather, mating habits, food resources and the like while others see widespread expansion across most, or all, of North America.