Fauna
Insect

Nessus Sphinx

Amphion floridensis

Also known as Nessus Sphinx Moth

Nessus sphinxes are agile, day-flying hawk moths frequently mistaken for hummingbirds or bumblebees as they hover before nectar-rich flowers. Adults display a distinctive fan-like abdominal tuft that flares during flight, accented by two vivid golden-yellow bands across the dark body. Caterpillars feed on woody vines of the grape family before pupating in loose cocoons spun among leaf litter on the forest floor.

Day-FlyingPollinatorMimic
Nessus Sphinx reference
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—observations
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Not EvaluatedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNot Evaluated — not placed on the risk ladderRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyFlower nectar, Grape foliage, Virginia creeper leaves
Predators
  • Songbirds
  • Robber flies
  • Orb-weaver spiders
ThreatsPesticide applications, habitat loss, and autumn leaf litter removal
HabitatsDeciduous woodlands, forest edges, suburban gardens, and stream corridors
Life span1 year (several weeks as an adult)
Classification
  1. FamilySphingidae
  2. SpeciesAmphion floridensis
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
  • Observation Timing: Search sunny woodland borders and flower beds during mid-afternoon to dusk.
  • Floral Patches: Look near flowering lilacs, phlox, and geraniums where adults refuel on nectar.
  • Garden Hospitality: Retain native wild grape and fallen leaves to support their life cycle.
Related species
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