Wednesday Wildlife, 11/13/13

The larvae of what is commonly known as a hummingbird moth. 

The Hyles lineata aka White Lined Sphinx Moth, is common in Iowa and throughout North America and feeds on the nectar of flowers and plants as it competes against the hummingbirds for the same food supply.

This caterpillar was one of two we discovered on the 10th of October this fall and was probably feeding off the elm and apple trees from the property. This late in the year, it should go into hibernation and enter maturity next spring. The pupae stage is spent in shallow underground chambers.

There's more information at the bug guide from Iowa Sate University.