Lime Hawkmoth
Common NameLime Hawkmoth
Scientific NameMimas tiliae
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilySmerinthinae
Wingspan (mm)70
Primary Colorsgreen, pinkish-brown, cream, yellowish-orange
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, parks, gardens, urban areas
Geographic RangeEurope, extending east through Russia to western Siberia
Host PlantsTilia, Betula, Ulmus, Alnus, Prunus
Flight PeriodMay to July (main brood), sometimes a partial second brood in August
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae are green with yellow stripes and a blue horn at the rear, pupating in a cocoon underground.
Identification TipsKey features include the unique combination of green and pinkish-brown mottling on the forewings, the central band, and the yellowish hindwings. Its resting posture with wings held tent-like is also characteristic.
Description
A large hawkmoth with distinctive green and pinkish-brown mottled forewings, often featuring a prominent central band, and yellowish-orange hindwings.
