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Giant sphinx

Giant sphinx

Cocytius antaeus

A species of Cocytius

The wingspan is 13 - 18 cm.

General Info About Giant sphinx
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Attributes of Giant sphinx
Adult Food Sources
Nectar from night-blooming flowers, nectar from datura, nectar from brugmansia, nectar from hymenocallis, nectar from selenicereus
Larva Food Source
Annona glabra (pond-apple), annona purpurea (soncoya), annona salzmannii, rollinia mucosa (biriba), guatteria diospyroides
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Giant sphinx is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Giant sphinx feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
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Species Status of Giant sphinx
It is found from Brazil through Central America and into the southern parts of California, Texas, and Florida in the United States.
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Distribution Area of Giant sphinx
United States, Florida
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Predators of Giant sphinx Larvae
Birds, rodents, lizards, insectivorous mammals, larger arthropods like spiders and beetles, parasitic wasps, parasitic flies
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Predators of Adult Giant sphinx
Bats, birds, spiders
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Interesting Facts About Giant sphinx
Giant sphinx can hover in place like a hummingbird, allowing it to feed on nectar with remarkable precision and agility.
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Scientific Classification of Giant sphinx
Tips for Finding Giant sphinx
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Youth Habitat of Giant sphinx
Tropical Rainforests
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Adult Habitat of Giant sphinx
Tropical Rainforests, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Urban and Suburban Areas
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When is the Best Time to Observe Giant sphinx
The most suitable time for finding adult giant sphinx is during twilight or night hours, as they are nocturnal creatures. Larvae may be observed throughout the day while they are actively feeding on host plants.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Giant sphinx
For adult giant sphinx, mild temperatures with low wind are usually most suitable, as they are less active in cold weather and strong winds can hinder their flight. Larvae are less affected by weather but may be easier to find after rainfall when they are more active and visible on plants.
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How and Where Can You Find Giant sphinx at Different Life Stages
Egg Giant sphinx eggs are laid on host plants and are tiny, round or oblong. They can be found by carefully inspecting the underside of leaves of known host plants.
Larva Giant sphinx larvae, also known as caterpillars, can be located on their host plants where they feed extensively. Look for signs of nibbling on leaves and search around the plant for camouflaged caterpillars.
Pupal The pupae of giant sphinx can be found in leaf litter or soil near the host plants. They may also be attached to branches or plant stems. Look for the distinctive chrysalis shape which may blend with the surroundings.
Adult Adult giant sphinx are most active at night and are attracted to light sources, so setting up a light trap near flowering plants can be an effective way to find them. They can also be spotted feeding at flowers with nectar during dusk.
Are Giant sphinx harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Giant sphinx
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Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Smell, Shape
Giant sphinx is a remarkable pollinator, particularly drawn to flowers by their distinct shape, vibrant color, and enticing smell. This insect is often seen hovering from bloom to bloom, collecting pollen to sustain itself. Its role in the ecosystem as a pollinator is as vivid as the flowers it visits.
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