Privet Hawk-moth Sphinx ligustri

Privet Hawk-moth pair
Privet Hawk-moth
The Privet Hawk-moth is the UK's largest (native) moth with a wingspan of around 100-120 mm. With wings open, the pink and black barred body is a distinguishing feature. It flies in June and July (usually only in the southern half of UK, south of the Humber). The above photos were kindly provided by Clifford MacKnight and are used with his permission.
Privet Hawk-moth The above photo of a Privet Hawk-moth was kindly provided by Darren Parsons
Privet Hawk-moth The above photo of a mating pair of Privet Hawk-moths in Suffolk was kindly provided by Richard Lague

PRIVET HAWK-MOTH CATERPILLAR

Privet Hawk-moth caterpillar
Privet Hawk-moth caterpillar
Privet Hawk-moth caterpillar
The Privet Hawk-moth caterpillar fully grown is large and colourful: green with burgundy and white diagonal slashes and with a horn tail.
Privet Hawk-moth caterpillar
Privet Hawk-moth caterpillar
Privet Hawk-moth caterpillar
Privet Hawk-moth caterpillar
More Privet Hawk-moth caterpillars above, kindly provided to the Facebook page by Darren Parsons.