The Banded Sphinx is a spectacularly beautiful hawk moth with rose-pink hindwings and intricately banded olive-brown and cream forewings. Its large, smooth green caterpillar bears eye-like blue false spots and feeds on water purslane in wetland habitats. Adults are powerful nocturnal fliers that visit deep tubular flowers like morning glories for nectar.
Best time to see a Banded Sphinx Moth
The best time to see a Banded Sphinx Moth is August–October, when about 68% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 5,492 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Banded Sphinx Moth? What bug is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Banded Sphinx Moth sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted a Banded Sphinx Moth?
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal and know for sure - plus a live map of where it is being spotted near you.