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Strange Moth (Mournful sphinx moth)

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Thanks for the help!!
by: Doug

Thank you,
DOUG

Mournful sphinx moth
by: Moni

Doug
Tho the angle makes the ID a little challenging and a positive ID is not guaranteed, I believe this is a mournful sphinx moth.They are found in LA and it fits your description that goes with the photo.

The caterpillars are green with a tail (like tomato hornworms) and feed on grape family plants. Once the caterpillars are fully grown they pupate just under the soil surface. Adults fly during the day, and since they are also seen at lights they fly also at night.
They are very interesting looking especially that tail part!?!
Thanks for sharing this unusual looking moth!

Here are some photos to view other angles and the caterpillars.
http://bugguide.net/node/view/3136/bgimage

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