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Framed Tomato Hornworm Moth

Tomato hornworm caterpillars are an often unwelcome visitor in our gardens. The big green caterpillar feeds on three familiar species of closely related plants: tobacco, tomato and potato.

tomatoes hornworm moth
image source: wikipedia

Although the adult moth is not that colorful, I find it striking from its size and long proboscis. The “sexta” in the scientific name (Manduca sexta) refers to the six yellow spots on the abdomen.

tomato hornworm

 

 

I acquired two large moth specimens that I framed with the long tongue pulled out. These two framed moths are available on my ETSY shop. https://www.etsy.com/listing/208280747/framed-tomato-hornworm-moth-6×8-insect These may be the only two I have this year.

framed hornworm moth