The Achemon Sphinx Moth (Eumorpha achemon) is a fascinating and fairly uncommon creature found in various habitats worldwide.
As a nocturnal moth, it can be quite a sight to behold during its active period, which typically occurs from late spring to midsummer.
These moths are known for their captivating appearance, sometimes showcasing a wingspan of 3 to 4 inches.
Besides, their wings have striking shades of light brown, pinkish, and gray. There are elegant dark colors on their forewings 1.
These moths feed on grapevines and Virginia creeper during their larval stage. As adults, the Achemon Sphinx Moth feeds on nectar from flowers, using its long proboscis to hover and slurp up this sweet treat 2.
In the natural world, these moths play a crucial role as pollinators while going about their nightly feeding routines.
Identification of the Achemon Sphinx Moth
Physical Features
The Achemon Sphinx Moth, also known as Eumorpha achemon, is a fascinating species. They possess:
- Furry legs: Adults have noticeably hairy legs which help in their movement.
- Wings: Their unique wing patterns contribute to their identification.
- Color: They exhibit a range of colors, primarily pink and brown hues.
Color and Markings
An adult Achemon Sphinx Moth displays varied coloration and markings:
- Light brown to dark brown: Their colors can range from light to dark brown shades.
- Pink hue: Some individuals may exhibit a pinkish hue across their wings.
Wingspan and Size
Achemon Sphinx Moths have sizeable wingspans and distinct features:
- Wingspan: Their wingspan ranges between 3.5 to 4 inches (9 to 10 cm).
- Forewings: The adults possess elongated and rectangular forewings.
- Hindwings: The hindwings are shorter and rounded.
- Dark brown patches: Both forewings and hindwings can display dark brown patches that help with camouflage.
Below is a table showing the physical features of the moth.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Physical | Furry legs, unique wings, and pink/brown coloration |
| Wingspan | 3.5 to 4 inches (9 to 10 cm) |
| Forewing shape | Elongated and rectangular |
| Hindwing shape | Shorter and rounded |
| Wing markings | Dark brown patches on both forewings and hindwings |
Lifecycle and Behavior
Egg Stage
The Achemon Sphinx Moth (Eumorpha achemon) begins its life as a tiny, round egg, usually laid on host leaves such as wild grape or woodbine. The eggs hatch after just a few days.
Caterpillars and Larvae
The larvae of the Achemon Sphinx Moth, also known as hornworms, go through several growth stages:
- First instar: Bright green, small, and highly active
- Later instars: Develops distinct color variations, ranging from green to orange to brown
Caterpillars mainly feed on leaves of grapevines and woodbine. Although they’re not considered a significant pest, they can cause minor damage to host plants.
Pupa Stage
When caterpillars reach full size, they pupate in the soil. Pupa is a resting stage where the transformation into an adult moth occurs.
Adult Moth and Mating
Adult Achemon Sphinx Moths have a large wingspan (3 to 4 inches) and are characterized by:
- A large, stout body, up to 2 inches long
- Primarily nocturnal and crepuscular behavior
- Active mostly during late spring and midsummer
During their short adult lifespan, they mate, lay eggs, and continue the lifecycle.
Feeding Habits and Flight Pattern
The Achemon Sphinx Moth feeds on nectar from various flowers, using its long proboscis.
They also feed on grapevine leaves, but they are not considered garden-destroyers since their populations don’t usually reach pest levels3. Some key aspects of their flight pattern include:
- Fast and agile flying, resembling hummingbirds
- Hovering while feeding, making them efficient pollinators
Habitat and Distribution
North America
The Achemon sphinx moth (Eumorpha achemon) is a member of the Sphingidae family, commonly known as sphinx or hawk moths.
They are found throughout North America, including the United States, Mexico, and Southern Canada, and are most active between June and August.
Mexico and United States
The distribution of Achemon sphinx moths spans across Mexico and the United States2.
In the US, they are prevalent in states like Florida and California, where grapevines are abundant.
Southern Canada
In Southern Canada, Achemon sphinx moths are part of the more than two dozen native sphinx moth species.
Though not as common as the white-lined sphinx moth (Hyles lineata), they can be found spanning the North American continent4.
Characteristics of Achemon Sphinx Moths:
- Family: Sphingidae
- Pollinators
- Most active between June and August
- Caterpillars feed on grapevine leaves
Comparison Table: Achemon Sphinx Moth vs. White-lined Sphinx Moth
| Features | Achemon Sphinx Moth | White-lined Sphinx Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Habitat | North America (United States, Mexico, Southern Canada) | North America (United States, Mexico, Southern Canada) |
| Activity Period | June to August | June to August |
| Food Source | Primarily grapevine leaves | Wide variety of plants, including willow weed and four o’clocks |
Host Plants and Impact on Agriculture
Virginia Creeper
Achemon sphinx moth larvae have been known to feed on Virginia creeper, a common plant that provides valuable nectar for various species.
These plants provide a substantial food source for achemon sphinx moth larvae.
However, this relationship doesn’t necessarily have a negative impact on Virginia creeper population, as the plants can tolerate some feeding by the larvae.
Vineyards and Grapes
Achemon sphinx moth larvae also feed on grapevines (genus Vitis) found in vineyards.
In viculture, controlling pests like the achemon sphinx moth is essential for grape production. A few notable impacts on grapes include:
- Larval feeding causes damage to grape leaves and vines
- Torn leaves can affect overall plant health and grape yields
Although this species may cause some detrimental effects on vineyards, they are not typically considered a severe agricultural pest.
Honeysuckle and Other Plants
Besides Virginia creepers and grapevines, achemon sphinx moth larvae are known to consume other plants such as honeysuckle and some orchid species in the Eumorpha genus.
A quick comparison table of host plants:
| Plant | Impact on Host | Importance in Achemon Sphinx Moth Diet |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia creeper | Moderate | Primary |
| Grapevines | Moderate | Significant |
| Honeysuckle | Low | Occasional |
| Orchids (Eumorpha) | Low | Occasional |
Conservation Status and Threats of Achemon Sphinx Moth
NatureServe Conservation Status
Regarding its conservation status, the Achemon sphinx moth is currently considered:
- Secure in terms of its population and range
- Not classified as an endangered or threatened species
Predators and Threats
Achemon sphinx moths face a few natural predators, and one of the well-known ones is birds. Here are some features of these moths, that make them potential prey:
- Their size and fat content make them an appealing meal for birds
- Markings and colors, along with their stripes, make them more visible to predators
However, the Achemon sphinx moth uses some defensive mechanisms to deter these predators, such as:
- Rapid and erratic flight patterns
- Feeding at night, reducing the likelihood of encountering bird predators
Conclusion
The Achemon Sphinx Moth (Eumorpha achemon) is a captivating and relatively rare species found in various habitats worldwide.
With its striking appearance and nocturnal habits, it provides a fascinating sight during its active period. These moths play a crucial role as pollinators, contributing to the natural ecosystem.
Although they may feed on grapevines and other plants, their impact on agriculture is generally considered moderate, and they are not classified as a severe agricultural pest.
It’s important to understand their conservation status and potential threats and ensure their preservation in the ecosystem.
Footnotes
38 Comments. Leave new
Seen one in las vegas last night, 9/29/12
i have a little video (not shot professionally) of one of these fellows in colorado if you would like it, you may use it. my caterpillar, i gather from your site, was heading to the ivy when i stopped him and plunked him on the lawn. poor fellow. so near and yet so far.
One of these was just discovered in Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada.
I found one of these in my back yard in Weyburn, Saskatchewan, Canada. I’ve lived here over fifty years and have never seen one before, so I’m wondering if they are migrating north. We have seen Sphinx moths around here in the last few years but they pretty rare.
BugGuide does report the Achemon Sphinx from Saskatchewan.
We had two in our yard this summer in Neepawa Manitoba. We do have Virginia creeper in our yard. We have never seen any before.
we have spotted one in Carberry MB on Aug 22, crawling across the sidewalk. he’s formidable indeed!!!
I found one of these majestic creatures this morning (7/29/2018) in Minot, North Dakota. It startled me. What a beauty!
I found one on the lawn in my backyard today. There is Virginia Creeper in the yard.
I also live in Regina and just seen one yesterday. I also have vines in my yard. I have seen one every year but not this color.
We just found one of these in our garden today. We have grape vines and Virginia Creeper. What do these become?
Here is an adult Achemon Sphinx.
This pretty caterpillar is one of Eumorpha achemon I suppose; the white lateral ornaments are multilayered, more complex than in E. pandorus, and it is completely covered by little spots.
Best wishes
Bostjan
One more distinctive characteristic I forgot to mention yesterday: there are six pairs of lateral ornaments in this species’ caterpillar (Eumorpha achemon, as pictured on the photo) instead of five (E. pandorus); and the latter one might rather be restricted to the eastern parts of the continent, but I am not sure whether it could be spread to the western areas as synanthropic species in the meantime… They cooccur in the eastern half of the territory. – A fascinating genus of hawkmoths with the larvae pupating in underground chambers, which is typical for many Sphinginae, but quite unusual for the Macroglossinae…
Nice wishes from Berlin
Bostjan
I live in Duncanville, Tx. My daughter said this beautiful moth was on the screen when she came in from shooting pool this morning. It is still there and I think it is another miracle of nature!!!! I love it!?
Found one in our yard today, Brandon, MB. And, yes, we have Virginia Creepers in our yard, too!
Found one in Rapid City, SD
Yesterday (August 25, 2019) I found about 40-50 of these on my Virginia Creepers, last year I had found one and I’d never seen them before. I live in Macoun, SK. I have pictures if you’d like, some are huge and pale or green others are smaller and brownish colour and look as if they have a tail where the “eye” is on bigger ones.
I Just found one on my grape vine and had no idea what it was. I had never seen one before today in Regina, Saskatchewan
We found one of these on the light fixture on our front porvh this morning. It is so cool and the dark spots really do make it look like a broken leaf! So cool. In Denver, Colorado
I found a sphinx moth related to this but it has distinctly green rectangular shapes on its back the entire length of its body. I have a photo.
Location: Regina Saskatchewan
Time of Year: Last week in July
In 2020, I had well over 20 of these in my yard. This year, in the last 10 days of July, I have one or two coming out of my Virginia creeper wall each night. Just found 3 more tonight. I expect to see them nightly now for the next week or two. They are enormous.
We’ve found several the past couple of years in our yard, where we have Virginia creeper as well in Regina, Saskatchewan
I live in Regina Saskatchewan and my nephew and I found one of these while weeding my Grandfathers flower bed. My Grandpa absolute loved it he had never seen such a moth so I wanted to find out a little more about it.
I just found one and I live in south eastern Saskatchewan. I have Virginia creeper and grapes. I have to admit when I first saw him I went “ewwww!”
We live in Regina and have found 5 today
Spotted one at my church today (Sunday, May 15, 2023) in Las Cruces, NM. It was hanging out during worship on the interior side of our outdoor coffee bar shelves. Several in our church family were pleased to get to share in this evidence of the beauty of God’s nature!
I just found one in Albuquerque too (6/22/22). Almost same experience, found by the front door, probably drying its wings from the rain. Very calm, didn’t move when camera got close, even touched its back wings, didn’t fly away.
I found this moth on my deck(7/12/22) Ames, Iowa Just an incredible camouflage creation! Not sure if this moth is indigenous to my state?
We found one on our porch one evening here in West Virginia.Thought it was a leaf at first, until my wife went to pick it up and it fluttered.
Found this morning on patio bricks,so moved to avoid being stepped on. We have vines in our yard. On farm 11 miles sw of Moose Jaw sask
Just found two yesterday in Moose Jaw!
We found one in bienfait saskatchewan today!
Found one this morning on our patio. We are near Carlyle, SK. Massive!
Found one today in Regina in our backyard.
We found one I our grass today. Absolutely disgusting, never seen anything like that in my life. We have grape vines in our yard. We live in Moosomin
Found 1 in Ft Myers Florida
Found oneMay 26, 2023 Cedar Bluff Al.Left my door open for a while and it was sitting on a blouse .