Hubbard's Silk Moth
Syssphinx (Sphingicampa) hubbardi
This nearly full grown caterpillar of Hubbard's Silk Moth was found feeding on the leaves of Foothills Palo Verde (Parkinsonia microphylla) near Vulture Peak, s. of Wickenburg, Maricopa Co., Arizona. Oct. 6, 2002.
Adult male (left) and female (right) of Hubbard's Silk Moth. Notice that the male has feathery antennae and is smaller than the female. Moths of Southeastern Arizona.
Saturnidae -- Silk Moth Family
Hubbard's Silk Moth is common in the Sonoran Desert and can be encountered in late spring and more commonly during and after the summer rains. The adults fly at night and occasionally are seen attracted to artificial lights. Besides palo verde, the larvae (caterpillars) also feed on leaves of mesquite and acacia trees.