Extension > Garden > Diagnose a problem > What insect is this? > General/curiosity insects > Insects with obvious wings: greater than 1 inch long or wingspan is 2 inches or more > White-lined sphinx moth

White-lined sphinx moth

Hyles lineata

Chris Schultz, Bugwood.org

William M. Ciesla, Forest Health Management International, Bugwood.org

Description: 1 5/8 - 2 inches long (2 - 3 1/2 wingspan). The first pair of wings are dark colored with a white stripe running from the wingtip diagonally to the base of the wing. The second pair of wings is dark with a pinkish band.

Where/When: Visits perennials during the day or at dusk. Is active from July to September.

Significance: Resembles a hummingbird in size and ability to fly acrobatically. Does not harm plants.

More information on White lined sphinx moth