Syssphinx molina
Distribution:
Central America (from Mexico south). Further into South America replaced by other very similar looking species
Wingspan:
In between 6 and 8 centimeter (females much larger then the males)
Season:
multiple flights. Pupae overwinter.
Food plants:
Fabaceae (Robinia, Gleditsia,Acacia, Albizia, Cassia, Senna, Inga, ...), but also Quercus, Salix and Schinus
Rearing:
One of the easier Syssphinx. Keep warm and clean, in well ventilated plastic containers when young, but move to a netted cage when older. Be advised that cut Fabaceae and Salix does not stay fresh very long in a netted cage. Caterpillars respond badly to poor quality food. Fast growing and ready to pupate within 4 weeks. The pupal stage in between flights is short (approximately 4 weeks). The warmer the faster they develop. Pupae after the last flight in autumn can be overwintered frost free in a cool, unheated room. The fridge is not recommended.
Difficulties:
preventing the adults from emerging late autumn when temperatures are still fairly warm