Poplar Hawk-moth (Laothoe populi) 2021-05-19. Parc Slip, Aberkenfig, South Wales
Spotted resting in the late afternoon sunshine on the west facing wall at the Visitor Centre, Parc Slip Nature Reserve. A fairly large moth. I reckoned its wingspan was at least 80mm (3 inches).
This is the most common hawkmoth found in the UK. When resting their abdomens curl upwards. Adults have a short life and do not feed. The caterpillars mainly feed on the leaves of poplar and aspen but in this location willow and alder may be the main provider.
Poplar Hawk-moth (Laothoe populi) 2021-05-19. Parc Slip, Aberkenfig, South Wales
Spotted resting in the late afternoon sunshine on the west facing wall at the Visitor Centre, Parc Slip Nature Reserve. A fairly large moth. I reckoned its wingspan was at least 80mm (3 inches).
This is the most common hawkmoth found in the UK. When resting their abdomens curl upwards. Adults have a short life and do not feed. The caterpillars mainly feed on the leaves of poplar and aspen but in this location willow and alder may be the main provider.