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Index >  Identify It >  Moths >  Poplar Hawk-moths > Bookmark and Share

Poplar Hawk-moths



Latin name: Laothoe populi

Size: Approximately 70 to 90mm wingspan

Distribution: Found throughout the U.K.

Months seen: May to July

Food: The adults do not feed, but the caterpillars feed on willows, aspen, sallow and poplars (hence the name).

Habitat: Gardens, parks and woods.

Special features: The poplar hawk-moth can vary in colour from grey to pinky-brown.

The hind wings stick out in front of the forewings when at rest.  This is because the moth has no 'frenulum', which is a kind of hook for holding the wings in position.

When disturbed the poplar hawk-moth flashes two bright orange patches on the hindwings. The patches are hidden when the moth is resting.

The caterpillars of the poplar hawk-moth are bright green with a yellow horn on the rear end, and diagonal yellow stripes along the sides of the body.

These moths are attracted to light at night.





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