I am new at this, but what is this bug??? - Sphecodina abbottii

2 color patterns

For some reason this species has two color patterns in the caterpillar stage. Here is the other color pattern, also from Nashua, NH.

… Jim McClarin, 7 July, 2006 - 10:01pm

Nice find!

I believe this is the caterpillar of a Sphinx Moth. The eyespot reminds me of Erinnyis spp., but they are generally found in more southern states than New Hampshire. What was it eating when you found it?

… Hannah Nendick-Mason, 7 July, 2006 - 7:43pm

Eating???

It was eating my sock or my leg, I am not sure! I was doing yardwork and thought I had a stick coming out of my sock...it wasn't a stick, but great camouflage!!!

… josh052052, 7 July, 2006 - 8:30pm

I think you're looking at it

I think you're looking at it backwards, Hannah! The eyespot is actually its horn, with the head at the other end. But you're right, it's a sphinx, Sphecodina abbottii

… Craig Biegler, 7 July, 2006 - 8:24pm

keeping it!

Is there a way of keeping this caterpillar and watching it go through its various stages? My boys would love to watch it grow; however, I do not want it to have an untimely death due to my lack of knowledge in this area.

… josh052052, 7 July, 2006 - 8:34pm

I actually wrote an article on that subject!

See here in guide. If it wasn't on a leaf it might be preparing to pupate, which makes it easier. Give it some grape leaves though (the host plant of this species), to be on the safe side.

Craig, thanks for setting me straight - I actually considered Abbot's Sphinx and rejected it - I was for some reason sure the tail end was to the right. I guess I should not attempt IDs so late on a Friday night! Still, at least I got the family right!

… Hannah Nendick-Mason, 7 July, 2006 - 9:00pm