Pachysphinx modesta
Harris, 1839
Modest Sphinx, Poplar Sphinx
A large sphinx moth in the Sphingidae, found across much of North America from the southern United States through Canada. fly primarily in early to mid-summer, with single in northern parts of the range and potentially two generations further south. Larvae feed on poplar, willow, and cottonwood .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Pachysphinx modesta: /ˈpækɪsˌsfɪŋks moʊˈdɛstə/
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Habitat
Associated with riparian and woodland where trees (Populus, Salix, and Populus sect. Aigeiros) occur. are attracted to mercury-vapor and ultraviolet light sources.
Distribution
Ranges from the southern United States throughout Canada. Specific records include Alberta, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan in Canada, and Vermont in the United States.
Seasonality
active from mid-June to mid-July in Canada; May to July in northern parts of the range. Southern may have two per year.
Diet
Larvae feed on of poplar (Populus), willow (Salix), and cottonwood (Populus sect. Aigeiros). diet not documented.
Host Associations
- Populus - larval food plantpoplar
- Salix - larval food plantwillow
- Populus sect. Aigeiros - larval food plantcottonwood
Behavior
are and attracted to artificial light sources. In northern regions, produces one annually; southern may have two generations.
Similar Taxa
- Pachysphinx occidentalisSimilar size and appearance; both are large sphinx moths in the same with poplar-feeding larvae. P. occidentalis occurs in western North America and can be distinguished by geographic range and subtle morphological differences.
More Details
Light Attraction
Has been documented at mercury-vapor and ultraviolet light stations in oak/juniper woodland in southeastern Arizona.