Ash Sphinx moths are large, gray moths with a dark streak running down the middle of each forewing. It is not the same moth as the Great Ash Sphinx which is larger and also uses ash as a host plant. An Ash Sphinx may have subtle, olive green tones on the ‘shoulders’ of the wings. The hairy thorax lacks any definitive markings in the middle of it, and its light gray hairs are surrounding by a dark ring. A golden brown patch in the center of each forewing has a small white reniform spot on top of it. If wings are spread wide open, hindwings are visible and reveal a black and white banding pattern that gently curves across these smaller wings.
Caterpillars feed on the leaves of ash trees and two broods are usually produced each year. The caterpillar is green and fleshy with a white stripe on the sides of its green head. White diagonal stripes along the side of the body reach upward toward the rear end. A final, thicker stripe extends onto the long pointy horn. Adults are active from spring through early autumn and drink flower nectar.
General Characteristics Capability, Shape, Texture/Pattern, Benefits, Dangers
Note: An insect's reach is not limited by lines drawn on a map and therefore species may appear in areas, regions and/or states beyond those listed above as they are driven by environmental factors (such as climate change), available food supplies and mating patterns.
Territorial Map U.S., Canada, and Mexico
Alaska
Hawaii
Prince Edward Is.
Butterfly and Moth Anatomy
1
Antennae: Butterflies and Moths have a pair of antennae on the head used for sensing.
2
Head: The head is home to the insect's eyes, antennae, and proboscis.
3
Thorax: Home to the three pairs of legs as well as vital internal organs.
4
Abdomen: Contains vital internal organs such as the heart(s) and reproduction facilities.
5
Forewing: The upper, forward wing pair used for flying.
6
Hindwing: The lower, rearward wing pair used for flying.
NOTE: Butterflies and Moths are part of the Lepidopteran order as they share many similarities.
Colors: gray; brown; black
