Privet Hawk-moth

Sphinx ligustri

Uncommon
Privet Hawk-moth — photo 1 Privet Hawk-moth — photo 2 Privet Hawk-moth — photo 3

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

FamilySphingidae
Size8–10 cm
Hairinessglabre
Observation periodJune to September
DistributionThroughout Europe, common in gardens and hedgerows.
ToxicityNo
RarityUncommon

Host plants

  • Privet
  • Ash
  • Lilac
  • Forsythia
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