Photo By pbedell , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Virginia creeper sphinx
Darapsa myron
A species of Darapsa, Also known as Hog sphinx, Hog caterpillar
Adorned with olive and brown hues, virginia creeper sphinx exhibits a remarkable wing pattern that evokes the likeness of leaves, offering camouflage amongst the foliage of its habitat. As a master of transformation, it thrives on a diet of honeysuckle and viburnum during its larval stage, which then significantly shifts when it takes to the skies as an adult, favoring the sweet nectar of flowers.
General Info About Virginia creeper sphinx
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The Virginia creeper sphinx is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Virginia creeper sphinx is often found near the corolla, where its fluffy hairs easily pick up pollen, assisting in the pollination of the plant.
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Virginia creeper 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
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Appearance of Virginia creeper sphinx
Females have much rounder abdomens while the end of the male's abdomen is spade-shaped.
Egg The egg is the first life stage of virginia creeper sphinx. Small and rounded, eggs are laid by the female and often found on the underside of host plant leaves. The color and size vary but generally they are tiny and inconspicuous.
Larva In this stage, virginia creeper sphinx appears as a caterpillar, showcasing dramatic growth through several molts. It has a voracious appetite, predominantly eating plant material. Its coloration varies with instars, often serving as camouflage.
Pupal During this stage, virginia creeper sphinx is encased in a chrysalis, undergoing significant transformation. It's immobile and appears lifeless. This stage is characterized by internal reorganization that leads to adult structures. The chrysalis may blend with the surrounding environment.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult virginia creeper sphinx's development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction.
Adult Size of Virginia creeper sphinx
Wingspan 5 - 7 cm
Predators of Virginia creeper sphinx Larvae
Birds, rodents, reptiles
Predators of Adult Virginia creeper sphinx
Bats, birds, spiders
Interesting Facts About Virginia creeper sphinx
Virginia creeper sphinx caterpillars can whistle when provoked as a defense mechanism to startle predators.
Scientific Classification of Virginia creeper sphinx
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Youth Habitat of Virginia creeper sphinx
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
Habitat Preferences of Virginia creeper sphinx Through Different Life Stages
The egg stage of virginia creeper sphinx is predominantly found on the underside of host plant leaves, such as vines and grape family species. Caterpillars, representing the larval stage, are usually found on the same host plants, often feeding on the leaves. Pupae typically develop within the soil or leaf litter beneath the host plants, camouflaged from predators. To locate eggs or larvae of virginia creeper sphinx, one would inspect the foliage of potential host plants, flipping leaves to find the eggs and observing chewed leaves for larvae presence. Searching for the pupal stage involves gently sifting through soil and detritus around the host plants. Adults are most often encountered near nectar sources, such as flowering plants, especially during dusk when they are active.
When is the Best Time to Observe Virginia creeper sphinx
Adult virginia creeper sphinx are typically most active during dusk or at night, so searching at these times could be most fruitful. Caterpillars are active during the day when they feed on host plants.
What is the Best Weather to Observe Virginia creeper sphinx
Mild, warm nights without strong winds or heavy rain are best for finding adult virginia creeper sphinx. Overcast but warm and humid days can be suitable for finding caterpillars as it is when they are most active in feeding.
How and Where Can You Find Virginia creeper sphinx at Different Life Stages
Egg Virginia creeper sphinx eggs are small, spherical, and usually laid on the underside of host plant leaves. To find them, examine the leaves of known host plants for clusters of tiny eggs.
Larva Virginia creeper sphinx caterpillars are relatively large with a horn-like projection at the end of the body, feeding primarily on leaves of specific host plants. Scout for them on or near their host plants, especially where leaves have been chewed.
Pupal Virginia creeper sphinx pupae can be found in shallow soil or in leaf litter near the host plants. Look for them by carefully sifting through leaf litter or just beneath the soil surface.
Adult Adult virginia creeper sphinx are strong, fast fliers and are attracted to nectar-rich flowers. Search for them feeding at dusk or night, using a flashlight to spot them at flowers or using light traps in suitable habitats.
Are Virginia creeper sphinx harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Virginia creeper sphinx
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Agricultural Pests
Larvae of virginia creeper sphinx target vine crops, chewing plant tissues and predominantly attacking leaves. A mild presence results in minimal defoliation, while severe infestations can lead to significant leaf loss, reduced photosynthesis, and stunted growth. This pest's impact can extend to economic losses for vine crop producers and potential shortages of these crops for consumers.
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Prefer Plant Type
Yellow Flowers, Fruit Trees
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Smell
Virginia creeper sphinx, with its vibrant hues and elegant flight, visits various blooms to feed on pollen and nectar. While flitting from flower to flower, it inadvertently transfers pollen, effectively pollinating them. Virginia creeper sphinx's preference for yellow flowers and fruit trees shows a specialized relationship with certain plant types.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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