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Lettered sphinx

Lettered sphinx

Deidamia inscriptum

A species of Deidamia

The wingspan is 4.5 - 7 cm.

General Info About Lettered sphinx
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Attributes of Lettered sphinx
Colors
Brown
Habitat
grape
Adult Food Sources
Wild bergamot (monarda fistulosa), honeysuckle (lonicera spp.), phlox (phlox spp.), lantana (lantana camara), and japanese honeysuckle (lonicera japonica)
Larva Food Source
Grape (vitis spp.), virginia creeper (parthenocissus quinquefolia), peppervine (ampelopsis spp.), and porcelain berry (ampelopsis brevipedunculata)
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Lettered sphinx is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Lettered sphinx
It is found in North America.
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Adult Size of Lettered sphinx
2.5 - 3.5 cm
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Predators of Lettered sphinx Larvae
Birds, rodents, parasitic wasps, parasitic flies, other insectivorous arthropods
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Predators of Adult Lettered sphinx
Bats, birds, spiders, praying mantises
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Interesting Facts About Lettered sphinx
Though silent and elusive, lettered sphinx have larvae that can 'squeak' when distressed by forcing air out of their bodies, a defense mechanism rarely noted.
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Scientific Classification of Lettered sphinx
Tips for Finding Lettered sphinx
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Youth Habitat of Lettered sphinx
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Habitat Preferences of Lettered sphinx Through Different Life Stages
Eggs of lettered sphinx are typically deposited on the underside of host leaves, especially grape and Virginia creeper. Caterpillars prefer the foliage of these plants, where they can be found camouflaged among leaves as they feed. Pupae usually reside in shallow underground chambers, requiring soft, loose soil that is easy to excavate. To find them, one must search the ground near host plants. Adults are nocturnal and attracted to lights, so a common method of locating them involves using a light source as a lure during the evening hours, where they can be found nearby flowering plants feeding on nectar.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Lettered sphinx
For adult lettered sphinx, dusk and nighttime hours are most suitable as they are nocturnal. For caterpillars, daytime observations are recommended.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Lettered sphinx
Warm, calm, and dry nights are optimal conditions for finding adult lettered sphinx, while caterpillars and pupae can be located in similar weather conditions during the day.
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How and Where Can You Find Lettered sphinx at Different Life Stages
Egg Lettered sphinx eggs are typically laid on the underside of host plant leaves. To locate them, inspect plant leaves delicately, particularly focusing on host species.
Larva Lettered sphinx caterpillars can be observed on or near their host plants. Look for signs of feeding, such as chewed leaves, and you may find them nearby.
Pupal Lettered sphinx pupae may be found in the soil or among leaf litter close to their host plants. Gently sift through the leaf litter or soil near the plant base carefully searching for the pupae.
Adult To attract adult lettered sphinx, consider setting up a light trap after dusk or using bait stations with sweet substances like fermented fruit or sugary mixtures. Adult lettered sphinx are also likely to visit flowers at night for nectar.
Are Lettered sphinx harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Lettered 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
Prefer Plant Type
Asteraceae, Rose
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Smell
Lettered sphinx displays a significant role in pollination, having a fondness for the blooms of Asteraceae and roses. It is drawn by the vibrant colors and enticing fragrances of flowers, which signal a rich source of pollen. While feeding on nectar, lettered sphinx inadvertently collects and transfer pollen, thereby fertilizing the plants and sustaining an ecological balance.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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