Oleander Hawkmoth
Image: JOSEPH AYURVEDA (CC0)
Common NameOleander Hawkmoth
Scientific NameDaphnis nerii
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilyMacroglossinae
Wingspan (mm)105
Primary Colorsolive green, pink, brown, white
HabitatTropical and subtropical gardens, parks, and coastal areas
Geographic RangeAfrica, Asia, Southern Europe (migratory)
Host PlantsOleander, Tabernaemontana, Vinca, Adenium, Rhazya
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropics; summer to autumn in temperate zones
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Caterpillars are typically bright green with white spots and prominent blue-ringed eye-spots on the thorax, and a yellow horn at the rear, later pupating in leaf litter or underground.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive olive-green and pinkish-white marbled forewings, large size, and robust body. The white lines on the thorax are also a key feature.
Description
A large, robust hawkmoth characterized by its intricate olive-green, brown, and pinkish-white marbled patterns across its wings and body.
