Virginia Creeper Sphinx (7885)

Darapsa myron

Family Sphingidae

Photograph copyright by Tony Leukering

28 May 2012

Lake Nummy, Belleplain State Forest

CMMP block F08
Distribution map

The sphinx family has always been one of my favorite moth groups, for a variety of reasons. The primary reason may be that, for moths, their jet-fighter wing shape and stout bodies make them easily discernible in the field. Despite this stereotypical sphingid shape, there is quite a bit of variation within the family, in size, color pattern, posture, and feeding habits. The family even boasts a relatively substantial number of day-flying species, particularly the clear-winged species that act as hummingbirds and are often mistaken as such by laymen.

As this post's subject species' primary host plant -- amazingly enough, Virginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia) -- is so common and widespread, so is the species. Though Virginia Creeper Sphinx comes in a variety of colors, the pattern of color is fairly consistent, and the white shoulder braids make for an excellent first clue to identity.