Striped Hawk-moth

Most UK records are of adults attracted to light, but caterpillars can occasionally be found, the offspring of earlier arrivals.

Usually flies and feeds at dusk and early dawn, though can be active late at night.  Feeds from flowers like Red Valerian and Petunia. Cannot overwinter, though occasionally larvae can be found in the British Isles in June-July and again in September-October.

Flight Season

Adults generally found between May to October.

Size and Family

• Family: Hawk-moths (Sphingidae)
• Size: Large, 6-8cm wingspan 

Caterpillar Food Plants

A wide range of foodplants such as Rosebay and other Willowherbs, Hedge Bedstraw, Buckwheat, Fuchsias, Snapdragons, Sorrels and Docks.

Habitat

Breeds in warm, open habitats e.g. on the coast, in gardens and woodland rides.

Distribution

Recorded most years around the UK in small numbers, mostly in the south-west, southern England and southern Ireland.