Death's-head Hawkmoth
Image: Arnold Lyongrün (Public domain)
Common NameDeath's-head Hawkmoth
Scientific NameAcherontia atropos
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilySphinginae
Wingspan (mm)110
Primary Colorsblack, yellow, orange, brown
HabitatAgricultural areas, gardens, woodlands, open country
Geographic RangeEurope, Africa, Middle East, Asia
Host Plantspotato, tomato, deadly nightshade, jasmine, olive
Flight PeriodMay to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are large and colorful, often green or yellow with diagonal stripes and a prominent horn. They pupate in an underground chamber.
Identification TipsLook for the unmistakable skull-like pattern on the thorax, its large size, and its characteristic squeaking sound when disturbed.
Description
A large, robust moth characterized by its dark forewings, yellow hindwings, and a striking skull-like marking on its fuzzy, dark thorax. Its abdomen is typically yellow with black stripes.
