Nectar-thief
Guides
Agrius cingulata
pink-spotted hawkmoth, sweetpotato hornworm
Agrius cingulata is a large sphingid moth with broad neotropical distribution extending northward through migratory behavior. Adults are nocturnal nectar feeders with exceptionally long proboscises, while larvae are robust hornworms that feed voraciously on Convolvulaceae, particularly sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas), causing significant agricultural damage. The species has been documented as a "nectar thief" of rare orchids, removing nectar without providing pollination services.
Epargyreus clarus
Silver-spotted Skipper
Epargyreus clarus, commonly known as the silver-spotted skipper, is one of the largest and most widespread skippers in North America. Adults are readily identified by a prominent silver-white patch on the ventral surface of each hindwing. The species is multivoltine, with one to four generations per year depending on latitude, and exhibits strikingly higher pupal mortality during summer generations compared to overwintering generations. Larvae construct elaborate silk-lashed leaf shelters that provide limited protection from predators.