What are the characteristics of sphinx moth?

There are many different species with different characteristics, but in general they are large, heavy-bodied moths with long, thin wings. They have very fast and powerful flight, giving them the nickname "hawk moths". Many species also have a long proboscis that they use to drink nectar while hovering in front of flowers, giving them the name "hummingbird moths". Look for pictures of the White-lined Sphinx and Pandorus Sphinx to see a typical sphinx moth shape. To see some bizarre sphinx moths that don't fit this general description, look for Grote's Sphinx or Northern Pine Sphinx.