A species of Hyles, Also known as Purslane Caterpillar
The white-Lined Sphinx ( Hyles lineata) is a colorful furry moth with striped wings. It has a similar size of a hummingbird, and behaves like a hummingbird as well. It can fly extremely fast, and instantly swing from side to side while hovering just like a hummingbird. It feeds on nectar from a variety of flowers including petunia, honeysuckle, lilac, clovers, thistles, and jimson weed.
General Info About White-Lined Sphinx
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The White-Lined Sphinx is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The White-Lined 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 White-Lined 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 White-Lined Sphinx
This range extends from Central America to southern Canada through Mexico and most of the United States. They can also be found occasionally in the West Indies. Populations have also been seen in Eurasia and Africa.
Life Cycle of White-Lined Sphinx
Egg In this phase, the eggs of white-Lined Sphinx are typically laid on host plants. They are small, oval, and may possess colors that camouflage with the foliage to avoid predation.
Larva As larvae, white-Lined Sphinx exhibit a worm-like appearance with a segmented body. They feed voraciously on host plants, growing in size and may molt several times, changing colors and patterns for camouflage or warning.
Pupal The white-Lined Sphinx enters the pupal stage encased in a chrysalis. They undergo significant transformation internally, reorganizing into the adult form. This stage is motionless and may involve changes in coloration to blend in with the surroundings.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult white-Lined Sphinx displays vibrant colors and patterns on its wings. The body is fully formed with functional reproductive organs. They are now mobile, nectar-feeding, and focus on reproduction.
Adult Size of White-Lined Sphinx
Wingspan 7 - 9 cm
Predators of White-Lined Sphinx Larvae
Birds, rodents, small mammals, lizards, spiders, other insect larvae
Predators of Adult White-Lined Sphinx
Bats, birds, spiders, rodents
Interesting Facts About White-Lined Sphinx
White-Lined Sphinx can hover midair like helicopters, a rare talent in the world of moths, enabling precise movements as they feed on nectar.
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Youth Habitat of White-Lined Sphinx
Deserts and Arid Regions, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
Habitat Preferences of White-Lined Sphinx Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of white-Lined Sphinx are typically laid on the underside of host plant leaves, such as evening primrose or members of the Onagraceae family. The caterpillars, which hatch from these eggs, are found feeding on the leaves and flowers of their specific host plants. As they grow, they may be spotted on various parts of the plants during different instars. Later, when ready to pupate, the caterpillars descend into the soil or find shelter under surface debris to form their pupae. The emerging adult moths are nocturnal and are commonly found near nectar sources like honeysuckle or garden flowers where they feed. To search for white-Lined Sphinx at various stages, one would target these specific habitats: leaf undersides for eggs, host plants for caterpillars, the ground or debris for pupae, and flowering plants for adults at night.
When is the Best Time to Observe White-Lined Sphinx
The suitable time to find adult white-Lined Sphinx is usually at dusk or during the night, as they are primarily nocturnal and are attracted to light sources.
What is the Best Weather to Observe White-Lined Sphinx
Mild to warm weather, without strong winds or heavy rain, is ideal for finding white-Lined Sphinx, as these conditions are favorable for their activity.
How and Where Can You Find White-Lined Sphinx at Different Life Stages
Egg Eggs of white-Lined Sphinx are typically laid on the underside of host plant leaves. To find them, inspect leaves of known host plants, especially during the breeding season.
Larva The caterpillars or larvae of white-Lined Sphinx can be found on or near their host plants. Search by carefully scanning the plants for larvae, which often have distinctive patterns or colors.
Pupal Pupae of white-Lined Sphinx can be found in the soil or in a sheltered area such as leaf litter near the host plants. Gently search through potential pupating areas without disturbing the habitat excessively.
Adult Adult white-Lined Sphinx are nocturnal and are attracted to light. They can be found by setting up a light trap at night, using a bright light to attract them towards a white sheet or surface where they can be observed or collected.
Are White-Lined Sphinx harmful?
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Harmful Effects of White-Lined Sphinx
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Hurt Plant
When white-Lined Sphinx feeds on its host plants, such as apple, grape, and tomato, it chews on plant tissues, particularly the leaves and stems. This action results in defoliation and can significantly reduce photosynthetic capabilities, potentially leading to stunted growth and reduced yields in affected plants.
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Prefer Plant Type
Yellow Flowers, Evening-Primrose
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar, Accidental Contamination While Feeding On Nectar
White-Lined Sphinx is attracted to vibrant colors and sweet scents of flowers like yellow blooms and evening-primroses. While seeking nectar, white-Lined Sphinx inadvertently collects and transfers pollen, thus playing a crucial role in the pollination of various plants.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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