Waved Sphinx Moth

The Waved Sphinx Moth is normally nocturnal, but this one was resting in the shade on this 93 degree day at the Horicon Marsh.  He is over 3 inches long. The white spot in the middle of the forewing is a reliable field mark.  This common moth can fly up to 12 mph. They use their long tongues to eat nectar from tubular flowers. Their caterpillars are called hornworms because of the horn or spur that protrudes from their posterior.  The main host plant is the ash tree.  Unfortunately, Emerald Ash Borers are destroying this important host. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources provides information about what we can do to preserve our valuable ash trees to facilitate the survival of species like the Waved Sphinx Moth.