IdentificationThis is a medium sized moth with a striking black and white pattern on the forewings. Wingspan is 43-62 mm (1 3/4 to 2 1/2 inches). Forewing has a broad white stripe that runs the length of the wing bordered by dark brown/black. Caterpillar resembles young hornworm caterpillars. Color may be yellow, lavender, pink, green, brown or nearly black. Skin is very shiny.
This moth is common in this area. It ranges throughout North America but is mostly absent from southeastern states. It also occurs in eastern China, South Korea and Japan.
Caterpillars of this moth feed on the leaves of cottonwoods and willows. The Black-rimmed Prominent is also known as Fissured Prominent or False Sphinx.
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