Pine Hawkmoth
Common NamePine Hawkmoth
Scientific NameSphinx pinastri
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilySphinginae
Wingspan (mm)75
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black
HabitatConiferous forests, pine woodlands, heathlands, gardens
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia (Siberia, China, Japan), introduced to eastern North America
Host PlantsScots Pine, other pine species, spruce, larch
Flight PeriodMay to August
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on pine needles. Larvae are green with white stripes and a horn at the rear, feeding on pine needles. Pupation occurs in the soil.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its grey-brown cryptic coloration, three distinct dark longitudinal streaks on the forewings, and a striped abdomen. The white-spotted fringe on the hindwings is also characteristic.
Description
A medium to large hawkmoth with a cryptic grey and brown pattern, featuring prominent dark longitudinal streaks on the forewings and a striped abdomen. The hindwings are dark grey with a white fringe.
