Eyed hawk-moth caterpillar
Smerinthus ocellata
Conservation status: Common
When to see: June and September are the best time to see the caterpillars
About
Adults do not feed. These moths spend the winter as shiny black/brown pupae, either below or near the larval food plant. The caterpillars are visible from June to September and bear a resemblance to the Poplar Hawk-moth caterpillar, with the exception of a distinctive bluish-colored spike at the rear. All hawk moths have this tail spike. Gardens with willow trees are likely to be a prime location for spotting these caterpillars.
| See also different: | Garden caterpillars |
