Sphingidae: Sphinginae

06822 Eyed Hawk-moth Smerinthus ocellata, (Linnaeus, 1758)

BF1980 (ABH69.002)

 2010-2016
 2017
 2018
 2019

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:

Habitat

Gardens, orchards, parks, woodland and riversides.

Regional Information

There are no records in the system yet in Bulgaria.

Similar Species
Poplar Hawk-moth Laothoe populi


Larva/Leafmine:
Larva Type:
With lumps, bumps or horn(s)
Colours:
Green, blue, white, red, purple
No. of Proleg Pairs:
5