 For Anyone Interested in the Wildlife of the United Kingdom |
 |
For Anyone Interested in the Wildlife of the United Kingdom |
|
|
Home | Search | UK Safari Shop | Identify It | News | Members Area | Contributors | E-cards | About |
 |
|
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.
|
|
 |
