1986 Spurge Hawk-moth Hyles euphorbiae
(Linnaeus, 1758)
Wingspan 55-75 mm.A sporadic migrant to southern England from south Europe, there are only a handful of recent records, with at least one record of a caterpillar. In the 19th century, it bred several times on the south coast, usually on Spurge (Euphorbia spp.).
The adult resembles the more frequent Bedstraw Hawk-moth (Hyles gallii), but has a distinctive rosy tinge to the underside, as well as more solid-looking markings on the upperwing.
The larvae are quite variable but always spectacular.
The most likely time of occurrence is between July and October.