Eyed Hawkmoth
Common NameEyed Hawkmoth
Scientific NameSmerinthus ocellata
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilySmerinthinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, pink, blue, black
HabitatWoodlands, gardens, hedgerows, parks, scrubland
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, temperate Asia
Host Plantswillow, sallow, poplar, ash, apple, plum, birch, elm, lime
Flight PeriodMay to July (sometimes a second brood in August/September)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants. Larvae are green hornworms with white stripes and a blue horn. Pupation occurs in the soil, and adults are nocturnal.
Identification TipsThe most distinctive feature is the large, blue and black eyespots on the pink hindwings, which are flashed when the moth is disturbed. The scalloped edges of the cryptic forewings are also characteristic.
Description
A large, robust moth with mottled grey-brown forewings that provide camouflage, and striking hindwings featuring prominent blue and black eyespots on a pinkish-red background.
