White-lined Sphinx Moth

Natural Habitat

Widely distributed across North and Central America in environments ranging from deserts to gardens, meadows, and forests.

Diet & Feeding

Adults feed on nectar from various flowers including columbine and evening primrose; larvae (caterpillars) feed on a variety of plants including willowweed, four o'clocks, and grapevines.

Behavior Patterns

Often fly during dusk and dawn (crepuscular) but can be active during the day; they are known for hovering like hummingbirds while feeding. They undergo a complete metamorphosis with subterranean pupation.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits the ecosystem as an important nocturnal pollinator. They pose no significant risk to humans, though high populations of larvae may occasionally damage garden foliage.

Identified on: 5/26/2026