How do they look?

Sphingidae butterflies have a robust, spindle-shaped body and narrow, long wings. Their caterpillars are among the largest in Latvia, being stout, powerful, and reaching lengths of up to 10 cm. The proboscis is long and can exceed the length of the body. The wing patterns and coloration are diverse, often beautiful, and formed by unique combinations of colors. Some species may have partially translucent wings.

What do they eat?

Caterpillars of sphinx moths feed on a wide variety of plants, including herbs, trees, shrubs, and vines. However, within individual species, there are often specific adaptations to a particular plant species or closely related ones.

Interesting and important facts

Although most species are widespread, they are rarely seen since they are primarily nocturnal and crepuscular moths. Some, like dryad hawk moths, exhibit diurnal behavior as well. Sphingidae are important pollinators for various plant species, reaching nectar deep within flowers with their long proboscis while hovering above the blooms.

Information sources: https://www.latvijasdaba.lv, Kreslina L. ‘Insects in Latvia’

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