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Pine hawk-moth

Pine hawk-moth

Sphinx pinastri

A species of Sphinx

The wings of Sphinx pinastri are grey with black dashes. The wingspan is 7 - 9 cm. The back of the thorax is grey with two dark bands around both sides.

General Info About Pine hawk-moth
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Attributes of Pine hawk-moth
Colors
Brown
Black
White
Habitat
forest; garden; park
Adult Food Sources
Honeysuckle (lonicera), jasmines (jasminum), petunias (petunia), phlox (phlox), lilacs (syringa)
Larva Food Source
Scots pine (pinus sylvestris), mountain pine (pinus mugo), black pine (pinus nigra), norway spruce (picea abies), european larch (larix decidua)
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Pine hawk-moth is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Pine 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 Pine 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 Pine hawk-moth
It is found in Palearctic ecozone and sometimes the Nearctic ecozone. It has been found in Scotland but is usually found in England.
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Distribution Area of Pine hawk-moth
Palearctic realm, Nearctic realm, Scotland, England
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Life Cycle of Pine hawk-moth
Egg The eggs of pine hawk-moth are typically laid on the host plant. They are small, spherical, and may be colored to blend in with the foliage. This stage is solely for embryonic development, leading to the formation of the larva.
Larva As larvae, pine hawk-moth are known as caterpillars. They exhibit drastic growth in size, possessing a soft exoskeleton and specialized mouthparts for chewing leaves. The coloration can vary, often serving as camouflage.
Pupal In the pupal stage, pine hawk-moth undergoes transformation within a cocoon, attached to a substrate. The pupa is immobile, with significant internal reorganization, leading to the adult form. Color and size vary widely.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult pine hawk-moth displays enlarged wings and reproductive capabilities. With a hardened exoskeleton and developed flight muscles, the adult's primary functions are dispersal and mating.
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Adult Size of Pine hawk-moth
7 - 9 cm
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Predators of Pine hawk-moth Larvae
Birds, rodents, wasps, ants
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Predators of Adult Pine hawk-moth
Bats, birds, spiders
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Interesting Facts About Pine hawk-moth
Pine hawk-moth larvae have the remarkable ability to produce a clicking noise as a defense mechanism to deter predators.
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Scientific Classification of Pine hawk-moth
Tips for Finding Pine hawk-moth
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Youth Habitat of Pine hawk-moth
Forests and Woodlands
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Adult Habitat of Pine hawk-moth
Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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How Can You Attract Pine hawk-moth
For adult pine hawk-moth, bright flowers or bait that includes sweet substances like fermented fruit juice can be used as a lure.
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Habitat Preferences of Pine hawk-moth Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of pine hawk-moth are typically laid on the needles of pine trees, which serve as the initial food source for the emerging larvae. As the larvae develop, they can be found feeding on the foliage, making tree branches an ideal place to search for them. Pupae, on the other hand, usually reside in the soil beneath the host plants, necessitating a careful examination of the ground. To locate adults, one should explore areas around the host trees during dusk when they are actively flying in search of mates or nectar.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Pine hawk-moth
To find adult pine hawk-moth individuals, the best time is usually dusk or nighttime, as many species within the Sphingidae family are crepuscular or nocturnal.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Pine hawk-moth
Calmer, warmer nights without strong winds are typically more suitable for observing adult pine hawk-moth, while overcast, humid conditions may favor larval activity during the daytime.
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How and Where Can You Find Pine hawk-moth at Different Life Stages
Egg Pine hawk-moth eggs are usually laid on the underside of host plant leaves. To find them, carefully inspect the leaves, especially of host trees or shrubs where females may have deposited eggs.
Larva Pine hawk-moth caterpillars can be found on or near their host plants. They are typically quite large and may be camouflaged. Look for them by examining the stems and leaves for signs of feeding damage.
Pupal To find pine hawk-moth pupae, search the ground or in leaf litter near the host plant. Pupae may also be underground, so gently excavate the soil around the base of the host plant, taking care not to harm the pupae.
Adult Adult pine hawk-moth can be found near nectar sources or lights at night. Use a flashlight or setup a light trap with a white sheet at night to attract them. During the day, they may be resting on the bark of trees or under leaves.
Are Pine hawk-moth harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Pine hawk-moth
Discover the hidden benefits of insects
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
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Shape
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar
Pine hawk-moth is a nocturnal pollinator that uses its long proboscis to extract nectar and inadvertently pollinates flowers. Attracted by the colors and shapes of flowers under low-light conditions, it plays a crucial ecological role in the pollination of various nocturnal blooms.
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