Spurge Hawk-moth
Common NameSpurge Hawk-moth
Scientific NameHyles euphorbiarum
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilyMacroglossinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsolive-brown, cream, black, pink, white
HabitatOpen, sunny areas, sandy or stony ground, coastal dunes, riverbanks, roadsides, gardens
Geographic RangePalearctic region (Europe, North Africa, Asia); introduced to North America
Host PlantsEuphorbia cyparissias, Euphorbia esula, various Euphorbia species
Flight PeriodMay to July, August to September (bivoltine/trivoltine)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on spurge host plants. Larvae are striking, typically black with yellow spots and a red head and horn, feeding openly. Pupation occurs in a cocoon just below the soil surface.
Identification TipsDistinguished by the olive-brown forewings with a cream stripe and the black hindwings with a broad pink/red band. Its robust body and hovering flight pattern are typical of hawk-moths.
Description
A robust hawk-moth with olive-brown forewings marked by a broad, irregular cream stripe, and black hindwings featuring a prominent pinkish-red band. The body is olive-brown with distinct white and black markings.
