Sphinx Moths are first recognized for their great size. They are the biggest of the Hawk Moths in western North America. Despite having a huge wingspan over 11 cm (4.3 inches), the enormous, seemingly hefty, Big Poplar Sphinx Moth is exceedingly fast in the air. It may slow down to sun itself on a bright day, but it is mighty in flight, just like a hawk. Adults have furry heads and bodies. Wings are half light brown (near the head) and half dark brown. A wavy pattern forms an obvious border in the center of each wing. A scalloped edge at the bottom of each wing mirrors the center line. A thin whitish fringe runs along the bottom edge. A single, small, white dash on the dark part of each wing points toward the rear. Legs are dark brown. The Big Poplar Sphinx Moth resembles its close relative, the Modest Sphinx Moth.
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* MAP NOTES: The territorial heat map above showcases (in red) the states and territories of North America where the Big Poplar Sphinx may be found (but is not limited to). This sort of data is useful when attempting to see concentrations of particular species across the continent as well as revealing possible migratory patterns over a species' given lifespan. Some insects 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. States/Territories shown above are a general indicator of areas inhabited by the Big Poplar Sphinx. Insects generally go where they please, typically driven by diet, environmental changes, and / or mating habits.