Smerinthus cerisyi

Common names: One Eyed Sphinx

Ecology:

Adult Description:
This moth is fairly small (25-40mm forewing length) with scalloped forewings (1). The overall appearance of this moth is gray. The thorax is distinctly gray with a darker brown triangle bordered with white lines. The white lines bordering the dark triangle on the thorax are absent in the similar Smerinthus jamaicensis. The hindwings of this species are quite distinctive, pink with a black and blue eyespot. The blue part of the eyespot contains another black marking resembling a pupil. In Smerinthus jamaicensis, this eyespot is divided in half by a black line. The way this moth sits is unique to the subfamily, and will help you narrow down your identification. If the hindwings are pulled up and are visible from above the forewings, it’s likely a Smerinthinae.

Larval Description:
L5: The larva is blue or blue-green in color with white streaks on the head; generally found in areas with large concentrations of Populus spp. This larva has 2 dorsolateral parallel white lines that run the length of it along with a number of diagonal white abdominal streaks, the last of which leading to a short red horn.

Hostplants:

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The gallery to the left contains photos of Smerinthus cerisyi adults. If you have a photo that you would like to submit to us, please contact us.

The gallery to the right contains photos of Smerinthus cerisyi larval and pupal stages. If you have a photo that you would like to submit to us, please contact us.