Genus Pachysphinx

Rotschild and Jordan 1903

Etymology

Pachysphinx: Combination of the Greek word pachy meaning “thick” and sphinx which means “to draw tight.” Both words refernce traits of the caterpillar. The thick terminal stripe on the caterpillar is likely the origin of the use of the word pachy. Sphinx is a typical name given to this group of moths because the caterpillar resembled an Egyptian Sphinx, especially in a defense posture.

Pronunciation

PACK-ee-sfinks

Overview

Pachysphinx is a New World genus of moths with only two recognized species. The Modest Sphinx (Pachyxsphix modesta) is found in the eastern United States, and the Western Sphinx (Pachyxsphix occidentalis ) is found in the western part of the country.

Photo Credits

Photo courtesy of Sheryl Price.