Death's Head Hawkmoth
Common NameDeath's Head Hawkmoth
Scientific NameAcherontia atropos
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilySphinginae
Wingspan (mm)110
Primary Colorsblack, brown, orange, yellow, grey
HabitatOpen woodlands, cultivated areas, gardens, fields
Geographic RangeEurope, Africa, Middle East, parts of Asia
Host Plantspotato, tomato, deadly nightshade, jasmine, olive
Flight PeriodMay to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are large, often green or yellow with diagonal stripes, and pupate in an underground chamber. Adults are known for their ability to squeak and raid beehives for honey.
Identification TipsThe most distinctive feature is the prominent skull-like marking on the thorax. It is a large, robust moth with a yellow and black striped abdomen, and it can emit an audible squeak when disturbed.
Description
A large, robust moth characterized by its mottled dark brown and black forewings, and a striking yellowish-orange, skull-like pattern on its dark thorax. Its abdomen is typically yellow with black stripes.
