Eyed Hawk-moth - Smerinthus ocellata
Description
Wingspan 70-80 mm. This species has a sombre, camouflaged appearance at rest, but if provoked, flashes the hind wings, which are decorated with intense blue and black 'eyes' on a pinkish background.
Identification difficulty

Habitat
Woodland and suburban localities.
When to see it
The adults fly from May to July
Life History
The green caterpillars resemble those of the Poplar Hawk-moth, but have a bluish-coloured spike at the rear. They feed on Willow, Apple and several other trees.
UK Status
Fairly well distributed throughout England and Wales, though not common. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as common.
VC55 Status
Fairly common in Leicestershire and Rutland. L&R Moth Group status = A (common and resident)
Reference
69.002 BF1980
Leicestershire & Rutland Map
Enter a town or village to see local records