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Photo#1085858
Western Poplar Sphinx Moth (probably) - Pachysphinx

Western Poplar Sphinx Moth (probably) - Pachysphinx
Columbia Hills State Park, Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, Kittitas County, Washington, USA
May 22, 2015
Bug Guide's descriptions and photos left me uncertain whether this was P. occidentalis or P. modesta, but Pacific Northwest Moths has well-populated range maps (from university collections) for each, which show that P. modesta historically didn't get south of central Washington. That tends to confirm my impression from both sites that my moth's forewing is too pale and the dividing line through the middle too distinct for at least a typical P. modesta.

For more resolution: Flickr.

I'll leave this at the genus level pending expert review; if not contradicted, I'll move it to the species. But I wonder how long to wait?

Images of this individual: tag all
Western Poplar Sphinx Moth (probably) - Pachysphinx Western Poplar Sphinx Moth (probably) - Pachysphinx

Incidentally, one question:
The Pacific Northwest Moths website I cited, based at Washington State and Western Washington Universities, seems authoritative, but Bug Guide's citation protocol seems to only be interested in "books". Would it be suitable to enter PNW Moths as a "book"?

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