Sphinx poecila
Stephens, 1828
Northern Apple Sphinx
Sort #: 1668 | P3 #: 890121 | MPG #: 7810.1 | PFG Page #: 260
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Larval feeding type: Feeds externally
Larval substrate: Various trees and shrubs (due to the confusion with S. gordius, all hostplants need confirmation)
Phenology: Adult: 5/15 to 8/05 (123 records)
Comment: This species is characterized by a black and white checkered forewing fringe and with a completely white hindwing fringe, although these characters are variable and many specimens cannot be identified for certain, especially when worn. Larvae cannot be distinguished from S. gordius
Status in MA (automated assessment): Widespread, common
Status in N. America: Native
MA Endangered Species Act status: None
First Year Reported: 1875
Last Year Reported: 2023
Distribution by County: Berkshire, Hampden, Hampshire, Franklin, Worcester, Middlesex, Essex, Norfolk, Bristol, Plymouth, Barnstable, Dukes, Nantucket
Number of Records: 164