The moth family containing the death’s-head hawkmoths of the genus Acherontia is Sphingidae.
Acherontia contains three large hawkmoth species, including Acherontia atropos, the African death’s-head hawkmoth. Members of the genus are known for a skull-like pattern on the thorax, a feature that has inspired folklore and popular culture. Their association with beekeeping also comes from their ability to enter honeybee colonies and feed on honey.
Sphingidae is commonly called the hawkmoth or sphinx moth family. Many species are powerful fliers with streamlined bodies and long, narrow wings. Their caterpillars often have a prominent horn at the rear, which gives the group another common name: hornworms.
The family is broader than the death’s-head group. It includes familiar species such as the hummingbird hawkmoth and the five-spotted hawkmoth. Acherontia is the genus, while Sphingidae is the family-level answer.