Small-eyed Sphinx Moth vs Fiery Skipper

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Small-eyed Sphinx Moth Fiery Skipper
Scientific Name Paonias myops Hylephila phyleus
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Sphingidae Hesperiidae
Size 45-65 mm wingspan 25-34 mm wingspan
Habitat Orchards Grasslands
Diet Omnivores Nectar Feeders
Regions Eastern North America Southern United States, migrating northward in summer
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Small-eyed Sphinx Moth

A pinkish-brown sphinx moth whose hindwings bear a small blue eyespot ringed in black and yellow. It relies on camouflage at rest but flashes the eyespot when threatened.

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Did You Know?

The species name 'myops' means 'short-sighted,' a reference to its notably small hindwing eyespot.

Fiery Skipper

A small bright orange skipper with short antennae and a fast darting flight. Males have a prominent black stigma on the forewing.

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Did You Know?

It is one of the most common skippers found in American suburban lawns and is a minor turf grass pest.