Hyles lineata

White-lined Sphinx

Introduction:

The forewing is dark brown with a tan stripe which extends from the base to the apex. There are also white lines that cover the veins. The black hindwing has a broad pink median band. It has a wingspan of 2 to 3 inches. This moth is large and has a stout furry body. The dorsal hind region is crossed by six distinct white stripes and similar striping patterns on the wings. The hindwings are black with a thick, red-pink stripe in the middle.
Life Cycle: Larvae overwinter and can emerge between February and November, at which point they begin to feed on a variety of host plants. Caterpillars are known to be ardent eaters. When preparing to transition into the pupal stage, caterpillars dig shallow burrows in the ground where they then stay for 2 to 3 weeks, at which point they emerge as adults. As they get closer to pupating, they will wiggle up closer to the surface which makes it easier to emerge. host plants, and they can eat entire plants, cover entire roadways and form huge slick masses as they go.

Size 2-3 inch (5-7.5 cm)
Sexual Dimorphism:
Metamorphosis: complete (egg, larva, pupa, adult)

Caterpillars often form massive groups in search for food. Outbreaks have been reported in Utah that have damaged grapes, tomatoes and garden crops.

Insect Data

Names and Taxonomy

Common Names: White-lined Sphinx
Synonyms: Sphinx lineata, Celerio lineata, Deilephila lineata, Sphinx daucus, Sphinx lineata americana, Celerio lineata florilega, Celerio lineata lineatoides
Order: Lepidoptera (Butterflies and Moths)
Family: Nymphalidae (Brush-footed Butterflies)
Genus Information: 1 species in NV, 3 in CA, 5 in US

Distribution

Distribution: Hyles lineata is one of the most abundant hawk moths in North America and has a very wide geographic range. This range extends from Central America to southern Canada through Mexico and most of the United States. Some regions of South Asia like Sindh, Pakistan are reported to have habitates to these Moths. They can also be found occasionally in the West Indies.
Seen: Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve
Habitat: a variety of habitats, including deserts, gardens and suburbs
Food: The adults will feed on different flowers depending on time of day. If at night, they will choose flowers that are white or pale colored, which are easier to identify in contrast to the dark foliage surrounding the flower. If during daylight, they will choose flowers that are more brightly colored.