MN Extension Service
Insect Journal

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Beneficial/Neutral Insects

Beetles, Bugs and Insects with Obvious Wings

whitelined sphinx, Hyles lineata

whitelined sphinx moth picture 1
whitelined sphinx moth picture 2
Appearance:

Body length is 1 5/8 - 2 inches long with a wingspan of 3 1/2 - 4 inches.  The forewing is brown with a thick white line running through it.  The hind wing is brown with a pinkish red band.

Where/When: Found in urban gardens visiting a variety of annual and perennial flowers during the day and at dusk.  The larvae feed on a variety of weeds and garden plants. Active July through September.
Significance: Does little, if any damage, to garden plants.  A fascinating moth to watch as it looks very similar to a hummingbird when it is flying.
Department of Entomology Insect Journal MN Extension Service