Poplar Hawkmoth
Common NamePoplar Hawkmoth
Scientific NameLaothoe populi
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilySmerinthinae
Wingspan (mm)85
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, pale blue, red
HabitatWoodlands, parks, gardens, riverbanks, and other areas with host trees
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, temperate Asia
Host PlantsPoplar, Aspen, Willow, Birch, Alder, Ash
Flight PeriodMay to July, sometimes a second brood in August to September
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. The large, green caterpillar has white diagonal stripes and a rough texture, pupating in an underground chamber.
Identification TipsAt rest, it holds its forewings in a distinctive 'tent-like' fashion, often with the hindwings slightly protruding, revealing a hint of the reddish patch. The scalloped outer edge of the forewings is also characteristic.
Description
A large, cryptically colored moth with mottled grey and brown forewings, often with pale blue-grey markings, and a stout, furry body. Its hindwings are typically a striking reddish-orange, though usually hidden at rest.
