Categories
Hummingbird Moths, Sphinx Moths or Hawk MothsMorning sphinx?
My kindergarten class is currently studying insects and we need your help. I just happen to catch this one on video and digital format in the early evening. I live in the north Dallas area in Hickory Creek, Texas. This moth was savoring the nectar from my Indian Hawthorne bushes in bloom! On another point, I need your help in saving my mature oak tree from caterpillars this year. Last year, the entire tree was covered with gobs of webs! I am afraid my tree may die and it is also very annoying to have these clumps falling down on my patio and yard. Is there some type of treatment I can administer to the root system? The tree is too large to spray and there are way too many places to treat.
Loretta Lee
Lake Dallas Primary Kindergarten
Hi Loretta,
Your moth is indeed a Striped Morning Sphinx or White Lined Sphinx, Hyles lineata. it is probably the most common Sphinx Moth in North America with a coast to coast distribution. We know of no systemic for caterpillar control. Caterpillar populations are frequently cyclic, culminating in a year of overpopulations before the numbers stabilize once again. Caterpillars eat leaves, and this will not seriously impact the health of a mature tree.
I like ThisRelated Posts
-
(07/03/2005)White Lined or Striped Morning Sphinx -
(12/21/2004)Striped Morning Sphinx -
(09/09/2004)Striped Morning Sphinx and Hubbard’... -
(04/27/2008)Bug of the Month: May 2008 – Strip...
Notify me of followup comments via e-mail. You can also subscribe without commenting.
Post a Comment
You must be logged in to post a comment.