Mormon Metalmark vs Tersa Sphinx Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Mormon Metalmark | Tersa Sphinx Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Apodemia mormo | Xylophanes tersa |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Riodinidae | Sphingidae |
| Size | 22-30 mm wingspan | 60-80 mm |
| Habitat | Heathland | Woodlands |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Western North America from Canada to Mexico | Southern United States, Central America, South America |
| Conservation | Least Concern (species); some subspecies criticall | Least Concern |
Mormon Metalmark
A small butterfly with dark brown wings covered in white spots arranged in irregular bands. Several of its subspecies are critically endangered.
Did You Know?
The Lange's metalmark subspecies, restricted to a single sand dune in California, is one of the rarest butterflies in the world.
Tersa Sphinx Moth
A sleek hawk moth with narrow, pointed forewings in lavender-gray with darker streaks. It is a fast and agile flier found throughout the Americas.
Did You Know?
The tersa sphinx caterpillar has a series of large eyespots along its body that create a convincing snake-mimic appearance.