Pine hawk-moth facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Sphinx pinastri |
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Sphinx
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S. pinastri
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| Sphinx pinastri |
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The Pine Hawk-moth (scientific name: Sphinx pinastri) is a type of moth that belongs to the Sphingidae family, also known as hawk-moths. These moths are often found across a large part of the world called the Palearctic ecozone, which includes Europe and Asia. Sometimes, they can also be seen in the Nearctic ecozone, which covers North America. In the United Kingdom, you might find them in Scotland, but they are more commonly seen in England.
The young moths, called larvae or caterpillars, enjoy eating the needles of different pine trees. Their favorite meals include Scots pine, Swiss Pine, Siberian Pine, and Norway Spruce.
About the Pine Hawk-moth
The wings of the Sphinx pinastri are mostly gray with some black marks. When their wings are spread out, they can measure between 2 3/4 and 3 1/2 inches (about 7 to 9 centimeters) wide. These moths usually fly during the warmer months, from April to August, but this can change depending on where they live.
The back part of the moth's body, called the thorax, is also gray. It has two dark bands that run along both sides.
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A Pine Hawk-moth caterpillar
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A female Pine Hawk-moth (top view)
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A female Pine Hawk-moth (bottom view)
Life Cycle
Female Pine Hawk-moths lay their eggs in small groups, usually two or three at a time. They carefully place these eggs along the needles of pine or spruce trees. Once the eggs hatch, the tiny caterpillars begin to grow and feed on the tree needles.
Images for kids
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Adult caterpillar
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Caterpillar
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Male
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Male underside
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Female
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Female underside
See also
In Spanish: Esfinge del pino para niños
