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Big Poplar Sphinx

Big Poplar Sphinx

Pachysphinx occidentalis

A species of Pachysphinx

Pachysphinx occidentalis, the big poplar sphinx, is a moth of the family Sphingidae. The species was first described by Henry Edwards in 1875. It lives throughout Canada and the United States. The habitat consists of riparian areas and suburbs. The wingspan is 130–150 mm. There are two color forms, a pale form with yellow-brown forewings, which are dark gray in the dark form. The lines and bands are well defined. The upperside of the hindwing has a crimson patch covering varying amounts of the wing, and two dark lines which do not form a distinct triangle. There are two generations per year in southern Arizona with adults on wing from May to September. Farther north, there is one generation per year with adults on wing from June to August. The larvae feed on cottonwood Populus and Salix species.

General Info About Big Poplar Sphinx
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Attributes of Big Poplar Sphinx
Colors
Brown
Black
Red
Gray
Cream
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Big Poplar Sphinx
Widely distributed
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Predators of Big Poplar Sphinx Larvae
Birds, rodents, small mammals, insectivorous arthropods
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Predators of Adult Big Poplar Sphinx
Bats, spiders, birds, praying mantises
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Interesting Facts About Big Poplar Sphinx
Big Poplar Sphinx have a unique way of regulating their body temperature before flight by shivering.
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Scientific Classification of Big Poplar Sphinx
Tips for Finding Big Poplar Sphinx
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Youth Habitat of Big Poplar Sphinx
Forests and Woodlands
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Habitat Preferences of Big Poplar Sphinx Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of big Poplar Sphinx are typically found on the underside of leaves specific to their host plants. Caterpillars, or larvae, of big Poplar Sphinx are often found on or near their food sources, commonly found on the foliage of deciduous trees they feed on. Pupae may be located in shallow burrows in the ground or under leaf litter, where they undergo metamorphosis. Adults, often searched for at night, are usually found near nectar-rich flowers or sources of light. To locate these stages, searching host plants for eggs and caterpillars during the day, looking for pupae in the soil or under debris, and finding adults by identifying nectar sources or artificial lights would be effective.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Big Poplar Sphinx
The most suitable time to find big Poplar Sphinx would be at night for adults (as many Sphingidae are nocturnal) and during the day for larvae which are active feeders on host plants.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Big Poplar Sphinx
Warm, dry, and calm nights are ideal for observing or catching adult big Poplar Sphinx, while overcast days might make larvae more active and visible on the leaves of host plants.
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How and Where Can You Find Big Poplar Sphinx at Different Life Stages
Egg Big Poplar Sphinx eggs are often laid on the underside of leaves of the host plants. To find them, carefully inspect these areas, looking for small, spherical objects.
Larva Big Poplar Sphinx larvae can be found on host plants, which they eat. Search for signs of feeding, like chewed leaves, and find them during their most active hours.
Pupal Big Poplar Sphinx pupae are often concealed in the soil or leaf litter. Uncovering them requires gentle excavation around host plants, taking care not to harm the specimen.
Adult Big Poplar Sphinx adults are nocturnal and are attracted to light and nectar sources. Employ light traps or visit flowers that open at night to spot these creatures.
Are Big Poplar Sphinx harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Big Poplar Sphinx
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Garden and Landscape Pest

Larvae of big Poplar Sphinx can inflict mild to severe damage, skeletonizing leaves and gnawing on stems. A large infestation may lead to defoliation, compromising plant health and aesthetics, potentially impacting human enjoyment of gardens and landscapes.

More Effects of Big Poplar Sphinx

Beneficial Effects of Big Poplar 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
Willow, Poplars
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar
Big Poplar Sphinx is a nocturnal pollinator known to frequent willows and poplars, being particularly attracted to the color and shape of these plants. As they hover from flower to flower to feed on nectar, their bodies inadvertently collect pollen and transfer it, aiding in the reproduction of these plants.
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