Nessus Sphinx Moth vs Common Potter Wasp

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Nessus Sphinx Moth Common Potter Wasp
Scientific Name Amphion floridensis Eumenes fraternus
Order Lepidoptera Hymenoptera
Family Sphingidae Vespidae
Size 50-60 mm wingspan 13-17 mm
Habitat Woodlands Underground
Diet Nectar Feeders Nectar Feeders
Regions Eastern North America Eastern North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Nessus Sphinx Moth

A day-flying sphinx moth with dark chocolate-brown wings and two bright yellow bands across the abdomen. It hovers like a hummingbird while feeding at flowers.

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Did You Know?

It is one of the few sphingids that flies actively during daylight hours rather than at dusk.

Common Potter Wasp

A North American potter wasp that builds small globular mud cells on plant stems and twigs. The female suspends her egg on a silk thread inside the pot before sealing it.

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Did You Know?

The egg is hung on a thread from the ceiling of the pot so the larva can begin eating the paralyzed caterpillars below without being crushed.