
Community identification
White-lined sphinx moth
Hyles lineata
- Order & Family
- Lepidoptera; Sphingidae
- Size
- Wingspan about 5–8 cm (2–3 in).
Natural Habitat
Open habitats including gardens, grasslands, deserts, and woodland edges; adults often rest on walls and other structures.
Diet & Feeding
Caterpillars feed on a wide range of plants, including evening primrose, grape, and purslane. Adults drink nectar from flowers.
Behavior Patterns
A strong, fast-flying moth, often active at dusk and night; it may hover while feeding. Caterpillars pupate in soil, and several generations can occur in warm regions.
Risks & Benefits
Harmless to people and an effective pollinator. Caterpillars may occasionally defoliate garden plants, but rarely cause serious damage.