Field guide to the sphinx moths of Illinois

Most of us, whether aware of it or not, have had an encounter with a Sphinx Moth. Whether fighting their caterpillars in gardens as they devour the foliage of our tomato plants and grape vines, marveling at their ability to fly like a Hummingbird in all directions as they sip nectar from the flowers along our walkways, or just being amazed at the often beautiful colors and intricate geometric shaped wings of one that landed near a porch light overnight, these beautiful insects are always around us, waiting to be discovered and appreciated This guide treats all species known to have been found and those likely to be found in Illinois and surrounding states. Anatomical drawings, colorful sketches, and abundant color photographs illustrate sphinx moth anatomy, pupation, and species characteristics. As with any facet of science, there is always more work to be done. During the writing of this book, we succeeded in documenting a large breeding population of the Cypress Sphinx in Illinois. No doubt, at some point in the future, one or both Pine Sphinx species will be found as well.