Knowledgebase

Big green caterpillar #876020

Asked July 05, 2024, 3:38 PM EDT

Hi! This guy showed up in our backyard today. He wasn’t moving, but was gripping the pine straw tightly. I moved him into my fireweed stand, but would like to know what he likes to eat. I did a brief online image search but couldn’t find him. Any help is appreciated. I volunteer with Pollinator Pathway and have mostly native plants and no insecticides. That shiny thing is a quarter.

Deschutes County Oregon

Expert Response

Hi Robin:

This is the caterpillar of the white-lined sphinx moth (Hyles lineata), otherwise known as the hummingbird moth.  That is a beautiful specimen you have visiting you...

Here is some additional information on this species, including what they like to eat:

White Lined Sphinx Moth

Enjoy,
Cristi Replied July 08, 2024, 7:21 PM EDT
Thank you so much, Cristi! I have the adults in my yard frequently, feeding on my Palmer’s penstemon and other flowers. I hope this one got himself buried underground so he can pupate successfully. So good to know!

Thanks again!

Robin 

On Mon, Jul 8, 2024 at 4:21 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied July 08, 2024, 8:37 PM EDT
You're Welcome!
Cristi Replied July 09, 2024, 11:12 AM EDT

Loading ...