Hanenaga-budou-suzume (Acosmeryx naga) – Wildlife of Japan

Introduction

Hanenaga Budou Suzume is a moth species belonging to the family Sphingidae.
Its scientific name is Acosmeryx naga. This species is recorded from Japan and neighboring regions of East Asia.

Appearance

Published descriptions list a forewing length of approximately 45–50 mm.
The species has elongated forewings, a characteristic of the genus Acosmeryx.

Habitat & Distribution

In Japan, Hanenaga Budou Suzume has confirmed records from Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku, Kyushu, and the Nansei Islands.
Its distribution is associated with the presence of larval host plants.

Behavior

Adults are nocturnal and are attracted to artificial light.
They are recorded mainly during the warmer seasons.

Diet

Larval host plants belong to the grape family (Vitaceae) and the kiwifruit family (Actinidiaceae).
Recorded food plants include yabukarashi, nobudou, and sarunashi (Actinidia species).

Conservation

No specific conservation status or Red List assessment is indicated for this species in Japan.

Author’s Impression

Hanenaga Budou Suzume is a species I often encounter during insect watching around streetlights.
I have personally observed this moth not only in natural settings but also in urban areas, including locations within towns.
Seeing a large hawk moth appear under city lights is a reminder that even ordinary urban spaces can support unexpected wildlife.