Death's Head Hawk-moth

Acherontia atropos

Rare
Death's Head Hawk-moth — photo 1 Death's Head Hawk-moth — photo 2 Death's Head Hawk-moth — photo 3 Death's Head Hawk-moth — photo 4 Death's Head Hawk-moth — photo 5 Death's Head Hawk-moth — photo 6 Death's Head Hawk-moth — photo 7

Description

Very large, robust caterpillar in several colour forms: yellow with violet or blue oblique bands, green or brown. Curved, granular caudal horn.

Information

FamilySphingidae
Size10–13 cm
Hairinessglabre
Observation periodJuly to October
DistributionVirtually all of France and many European countries. Migratory, arrives from Africa.
ToxicityNo
RarityRare

Host plants

  • Potato
  • Woody nightshade
  • Jasmine
  • Privet

Notes

The adult moth can squeak loudly and raid beehives for honey.

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