A species of Hyles, Also known as Leafy spurge hawk moth, Euphorbia sphinx
The spurge hawk-moth (Hyles euphorbiae) earns its name from being a biological control agent of leafy spurge, which is considered to be an invasive plant. It lays eggs on the leaves of these plants, covering them in what has been called a "liquid gum" substance that keeps them sticky. Adults are brown and pink while the caterpillars are smooth and black.
General Info About Spurge hawk-moth
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Attributes of Spurge hawk-moth
Colors
Brown
Black
White
Orange
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
The Spurge hawk-moth can induce toxic reactions varying in severity. Nevertheless, these toxins primarily target their prey and predators and are usually not fatal to humans.
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Spurge hawk-moth 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 Spurge hawk-moth 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
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Spurge hawk-moth
It is a European moth of the family Sphingidae.
Distribution Area of Spurge hawk-moth
Pacific Northwest, New York, Southern Ontario in the East, Canada, Central Montana
Appearance of Spurge hawk-moth
The spurge hawk-moth - Fore wings grey, with an almost square olive-brown blotch; at the base another olive-brown blotch near the middle, and a long oblique band of the same colour, commencing in a point at the extreme apex of the wing, and gradually growing wider until it reaches the margin, where it is very broad: hind wings pink, with a black blotch at the base, and a black band half-way between this black blotch and the margin, and a snowy-white blotch at the anal angle: thorax and body olive-brown, with a white line on each side of the thorax just at the base of the wings; this line runs on each side along the head just above the eye, and the two meet at the nose; the body has on each side at the base two square black spots and two square white spots, and beyond them, nearer the apex, and also on each side, are three white lines.
Egg The egg phase marks the beginning of the spurge hawk-moth's life cycle. The eggs are usually laid on host plants and are small, spherical, and initially pale but may darken with time.
Larva After hatching, the larva of spurge hawk-moth emerges as a caterpillar. With a voracious appetite, the larva goes through several molts, growing substantially in size, and shows color changes that serve as camouflage or warning.
Pupal Upon reaching a critical size, the larva of spurge hawk-moth forms a pupa. This stage is characterized by a hardened case, within which the larva undergoes a radical transformation, restructuring into an adult insect.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult spurge hawk-moth's development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction.
Adult Size of Spurge hawk-moth
5 - 7 cm
Predators of Spurge hawk-moth Larvae
Birds, rodents, reptiles, invertebrate predators like ants, wasps, and spiders
Predators of Adult Spurge hawk-moth
Bats, birds, rodents, spiders, larger predatory insects such as other species of mantises and dragonflies
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How Can You Attract Spurge hawk-moth
In their adult stage, spurge hawk-moth can be attracted to light sources during night time or to certain flowers and plants that they use as a food source for their nectar-feeding habits.
Habitat Preferences of Spurge hawk-moth Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of spurge hawk-moth are laid on the leaves of host plants such as Euphorbia species, commonly in temperate zones. Caterpillars are typically found munching on these leaves, particularly in gardens or wild areas where these plants thrive. Pupae of spurge hawk-moth tend to be underground or in leaf litter near the host plants, so searching for them involves gently digging or inspecting the ground cover nearby. To find adult spurge hawk-moth, one might check nectar-rich flowers at dusk when they are active feeders, as they are known to inhabit open habitats, including meadows and fields.
When is the Best Time to Observe Spurge hawk-moth
The adult spurge hawk-moth are typically active during dusk and the early hours of the night, making this the optimal time to observe or capture them. The caterpillar stage can be found during daytime, particularly in warm and sunny conditions, when they are most active in feeding and growth.
What is the Best Weather to Observe Spurge hawk-moth
For the adult spurge hawk-moth, calm, warm, and humid nights may increase activity and visibility. For the larval stage, warm, dry days are suitable as spurge hawk-moth caterpillars need to feed on host plants without the hindrance of rain.
How and Where Can You Find Spurge hawk-moth at Different Life Stages
Egg Spurge hawk-moth eggs are usually laid on the underside of host plant leaves. To find them, carefully inspect the leaves of known host plants, particularly looking at the undersides for small, spherical eggs.
Larva Spurge hawk-moth larvae are often found on or near their host plants. Locate the specific plants they feed on and search the leaves and stems for caterpillars, which can be visibly distinctive by their patterns or colors.
Pupal Spurge hawk-moth pupae may be buried in the soil or found in leaf litter near the host plants. To find them, gently sift through the soil or leaf litter surrounding the host plants, looking for the camouflaged pupae.
Adult Spurge hawk-moth adults can be located by setting up light traps at night or by visiting flowering plants they are known to feed on during dusk. Care should be taken not to disturb the creatures or their habitat.
Are Spurge hawk-moth harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Spurge hawk-moth
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Hurt Plant
Upon feeding, spurge hawk-moth characteristically chews through the tissues of 'Euphorbia' plant organs, primarily the leaves and stems. This results in irregular holes and defoliation that can reduce photosynthetic capability, impairing growth and vigor. Weakness from such damage may also predispose plants to secondary infections or other environmental stresses.
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Shape
Spurge hawk-moth is a proficient pollinator often seen hovering near flowers, its long proboscis perfectly adapted for sipping nectar. While feeding, pollen inadvertently sticks to its body and is carried to the next bloom, aiding cross-pollination. Intriguingly, they have nocturnal and diurnal flying habits.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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