Rustic Sphinx
Manduca rustica
Arrived at ultaviolet collecting lights in Florida Canyon, Sta. Rita Mountains, Arizona, USA. 27 July 2013.
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This is a large moth and like the other Manduca species is capable of fast, powerful flight. It also has an extraordinarily long proboscis that is normally curled up into the underside of the head. With this long 'tongue' the insect can hover in front of a long-tubed flower and reach the nectar several centimeters inside. Sweet Four O'Clock is a night blooming plant with just such a flower; there are many others.
Sphingidae -- Sphinx Moth Family
More Information:
- Bugguide Iowa State University
- Encyclopedia of Life
- Butterflies and Moths of North America
- Google Images
- Google Scholar Literature Search