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Poplar Hawk-moth
Laothoe populi (Linnaeus, 1758)
Sphingidae: Smerinthinae
1981 / 69.003
Photo © Stephen Youngs,  17/07/2020 - Peddars Way/Forestry Ride

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Similar Species
Eyed Hawk-moth
Smerinthus ocellata
Forewing: 30-46mm.
Flight: Two Generations. May-Jul. Aug-Sep.
Foodplant:   Poplars, Aspen, sallows and willows.
Red List: Least Concern (LC)
GB Status: Common
Verification Grade:  Adult: 1
Status
One of the largest moths regularly visiting gardens. It is usually single brooded and flies from May to July, but a second brood emerging in August and September can occur.

Smooth bright green caterpillars have yellow stripes and a horn at the tail. Besides poplar, the larvae may feed on aspen, sallow and willows.

Recorded in 68 (92%) of 74 10k Squares.
First Recorded in 1834.
Last Recorded in 2025.
Additional Stats

Latest 10 Records
Date#VC10kArea
17/05/2025127TG42Eccles
17/05/2025127TM18Tibenham
17/05/2025127TG11Horsford
17/05/2025227TG32Neatishead / Barton Broad
17/05/2025128TL99Rockland St Peter
17/05/2025128TF63Heacham
17/05/2025+27TG13Wickmere
17/05/2025127TG51Caister
17/05/2025127TG20Norwich (Thorpe St Andrew)
16/05/2025127TM18Tibenham
Further info: Laothoe populi
 
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