Elephant Hawk-moth
Deilephila elpenor
Common
Description
Very distinctive caterpillar in green or brown form, both with two pairs of eye-like markings on thoracic segments mimicking a snake. Short, curved caudal horn.
Information
| Family | Sphingidae |
|---|---|
| Size | 7–8 cm |
| Hairiness | glabre |
| Observation period | June to September |
| Distribution | Throughout France and almost all of Europe. |
| Toxicity | No |
| Rarity | Common |
Host plants
- Willowherb
- Fuchsia
- Evening primrose
- Bedstraw
- Vine
Notes
Eye markings swell when threatened, making it look like a snake head.