ABH 69.003

Poplar Hawk-moth Laothoe populi

BF 1981

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(Linnaeus, 1758)
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Family

Sphingidae » Smerinthinae

Wingspan

65-90 mm.
   

Description

Resembles cluster of dead leaves of the main host, poplar.When disturbed, the moth will suddenly reveal a bright orange-red basal patch on the hindwing, possibly as a distraction or startle display.The wings can sometimes have a pinkish/purplish tinge wings are mainly grey marked with darker grey fascia but with the greys occasionally replaced by buffish tones (this form is more frequent among females than males).There is a white spot at the distal edge of the cell on the fore wings.

   

Life Cycle

Adults from May to July .The larvae feed on poplar (Populus), aspen (P. tremula) and sallow (Salix).frequent visitor to light.Unmistakable. Larva feeds on Aspen, White Poplar, Black Poplar, Goat Willow and Grey Willow, over-wintering as a pupa.
 

Habitat

Common in parkland, gardens, fens, woodland, heathland and moorland
   

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Images

 1981 Poplar Hawkmoth 9199

 1981 Poplar Hawkmoth 9198

 1981 Poplar Hawkmoth 9190

 1981 Poplar Hawkmoth 9188