Elephant Hawk-moth

Deilephila elpenor
Sphingidae
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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
Size
7–8 cm
Observation period
June to September
Toxicity
No
Rarity
Common
Host plants
WillowherbFuchsiaEvening primroseBedstrawVine
Distribution

Throughout France and almost all of Europe.

Notes

Eye markings swell when threatened, making it look like a snake head.