Family Sphingidae » Subfamily Macroglossinae » Deilephila elpenor (Linnaeus, 1758) 69.016 (BF1991)
Wingspan 45-60 mm. This is one of our most beautiful moths with large pink and olive-green streamlined wings. The name comes from the caterpillar which looks like an elephant’s trunk when it extends itself. Similar to the Small Elephant Hawkmoth (Deilephila porcellus), which is a lot smaller and has different markings. The larvae feed on Fuschia and Bedstraws, but most frequently on Rosebay Willowherb (Chamaenerion angustifolium), and other Willowherbs. This is one of the few caterpillars that can actually swim, which it may resemble a small grass snake. The adults fly May to August usually in one generation, but fresh adults may be seen in the late summer. Flies from dusk feeding on nectar-rich flowers, and is attracted to light, sometimes in large numbers. Found in wide-ranging habitats, from parks and gardens, hedgerows, heathland, sand dunes, and woodland clearings. Common and widespread throughout England and Wales, but more thinly in Scotland.
Caught in moth trap, back garden, South Staffordshire. Photos © Peter Hillman.
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