Two elephant hawk moth caterpillars were spotted today somewhat risking their lives making their way along a friend\u2019s driveway at Wrenthorpe.\u00a0 At this time of year they can be seen during the day looking for a hideaway in low vegetation or just under soil surface ready to overwinter as pupa.\u00a0 \u00a0When not disturbed, the larva have long, narrow trunk-shaped noses and this is how elephant hawk moths get their name.\u00a0 The two sets of eye spots may act as a deterrent to predators. \u00a0These large caterpillars normally feed at night on rosebay willow-herb, bedstraws and in gardens, they are\u00a0attracted to fuchsia. However, any damage to plants is minimal and they are not regarded as a problem.\u00a0 The adult moths are on the wing after dark from May to July often visiting honeysuckle during the evening to feed.<\/p>\n
![\"Elephant](\"http:\/\/wakefieldnaturalists.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/ELEHAWK02.jpg\")
<\/a>Elephant Hawk Moth Caterpillers<\/p><\/div>\n
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Two elephant hawk moth caterpillars were spotted today somewhat risking their lives making their way along a friend\u2019s driveway at Wrenthorpe.\u00a0 At this time of year they can be seen during the day looking for a hideaway in low vegetation … Continue reading