Our insect of the week for November 10, 2025 is the twin spotted sphinx, Smerinthus jamaicensis [LEPIDOPTERA: Sphingidae]. This moth is found throughout eastern North America (including central Illinois). It was originally described by the British entomologist Dru Drury in 1773.

Adults of this species typically do not feed and are often attracted to lights at night. Larvae feed on a wide range of host plants including: willow, poplar, birch, ash, elm, apple and plum.

This species prefers open woodlands and forest edges.

The adult moth in this photo was collected by Frank Hitchell in Peoria County, Illinois.