Eyed Hawk-moth (Smerinthus ocellata, (Linnaeus, 1758))

General Information
This is a spectacular species, with curving wing margins and large blue and black eye patches on the rear wings, which have pink bases. These eye spots can only be seen when the moth is disturbed, when it flashes them.

Pupates in loose soil.
Overwinters as Overwinters as a pupa.
Both sexes come to light.
Often found at rest during day

Forewing length: 36-44mm.
Foodplant(s): willows (Salix spp.), sallows (Salix spp.), Apple (Malus domestica), Crab Apple (Malus sylvestris)
Flying: One generation, early May-mid July
UK Presence: Resident
National status: Common

Habitat

Gardens, orchards, parks, woodland and riversides.

Regional Information

There are no records in the system yet in MyPlace.

Similar Species

Poplar Hawk-moth Laothoe populi

69.002 (BF1980) Eyed Hawk-moth Smerinthus ocellata, (Linnaeus, 1758)

KR06822