69.016 BF1991

Elephant Hawk-moth Deilephila elpenor

(Linnaeus, 1758)

Wingspan 45-60 mm.

The English name of this moth is derived from the caterpillar's fanciful resemblance to an elephant's trunk.

The adults are attractively coloured pink and green affairs, with a streamlined appearance. They fly from May to July, visiting flowers such as honeysuckle (Lonicera) for nectar.

The larvae feed mainly on rosebay willowherb (Epilobium angustifolium), but also other plants as well, including bedstraw (Galium).

It is a common species in most of Britain, including Scotland, where it has increased its range in recent years.