Privet Hawk-moth

Sphinx ligustri
Sphingidae
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Description

The caterpillar of the Privet Hawk-moth is a large species, easily recognised by its bright green body marked with seven oblique white‑violet lateral stripes. At the tip of the abdomen it carries a dark or violet‑black tail horn, typical of the Sphingidae.

Information
Size
8–10 cm
Observation period
June to September
Toxicity
No
Rarity
Uncommon
Host plants
PrivetAshLilacForsythia
Distribution

Throughout Europe, common in gardens and hedgerows.

Notes

Overwinters as a chrysalis.