Sphinx chersis, the great ash sphinx or northern ash sphinx, is a moth that belongs to the family Sphingidae.

This insect has a large wing span (90 to 130 mm). The upperside of the forewing is soft dark gray to blue gray with a series of black dashes, one of which reaches the wing tip. The upperside of the hindwing is black with blurry pale gray bands. The larva of this species is typically light green with blue dashes and a bluish-green horn, but there is a red morph as well. Its appearance is very similar to that of others in the subfamily Sphinginae.

Appearance

Its larvae feed upon various plants in the olive family (Oleaceae) such as lilacs (Syringa spp.), ashes (Fraxinus spp.), and privet (Ligustrum vulgare). Mature caterpillars pupate in subterranean chambers when they have finished feeding, and here the pupae stay dormant until the next year. The moth emerges any time from May to August in the South, but is only found from June to July farther north. Adults feed at dusk on deep-throated flowers and have been sighted at honeysuckles (Lonicera spp.), evening primroses (in the family Onagraceae), dogbane (Apocynum spp.), phlox (Phlox spp.), and bouncing bet (Saponaria officinalis).

Biology

This species occurs in northern Mexico and throughout most of the United States, wherever the larval hosts are present, though it is uncommon in the Gulf States.

Distribution

harmful

Sphinx chersis, commonly known as the Great Ash Sphinx, is considered a tree pest because its larvae feed on the leaves of ash trees, causing defoliation and potentially weakening the tree's health and vitality.

tree pest

Sphinx chersis can be considered garden pests because their larvae may feed on the leaves of various garden plants, including ornamental trees and shrubs, potentially causing damage and defoliation in garden settings.

garden pest

Sphinx chersis can be considered crop pests because their larvae have been known to feed on the leaves of certain crop plants, such as potatoes and tomatoes, which can result in reduced crop yield and quality.

crop pest

Sphinx chersis is considered a pest because its larvae feed on the leaves of trees, garden plants, and crops, causing damage, defoliation, and potential economic losses for farmers and gardeners.

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What does a great ash sphinx eat?

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