Rustic Sphinx Manduca rustica

Sphinx moths are the hummingbirds of the insect world — they hover in mid-air while drinking from flowers, beating their wings so rapidly they become a blur. Adults can reach impressive wingspans and are among the strongest fliers in the moth world, often active at dawn and dusk when flowers are freshest.

The caterpillars are equally dramatic, sporting the characteristic rear "horn" that gives the whole family the nickname "hornworms." Despite looking fierce, that horn is completely harmless — pure bluff. The larvae are large, often vivid green, and blend surprisingly well into foliage despite their size. First formally described in 1775, this species has been catching the eye of naturalists for over two centuries, and it's easy to see why.