Death's-Head Hawkmoth
Image: Gabriel von Max (Public domain)
Common NameDeath's-Head Hawkmoth
Scientific NameAcherontia atropos
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilySphinginae
Wingspan (mm)110
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsblack, orange, yellow, brown
HabitatOpen woodlands, cultivated areas, gardens, potato fields
Geographic RangeEurope, Africa, Middle East, parts of Asia (migratory)
Host Plantspotato, deadly nightshade, jasmine, lilac, olive
Flight PeriodMay to October (multivoltine in warmer regions)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are large, often green or yellow with diagonal stripes and a prominent horn at the rear. They pupate underground. The moth is known for emitting an audible squeak.
Identification TipsThe most unmistakable feature is the skull-like pattern on the thorax. Its large size, robust body, and orange-and-black banded hindwings are also key identifiers.
Description
A large, robust hawkmoth characterized by its dark, mottled forewings, bright orange hindwings with black bands, and a distinctive yellowish, skull-like marking on its dark thorax.
