Privet Hawk-moth - Sphinx ligustri

Wingspan 90 to120 mm. Our largest resident hawk-moth, which has distinctive pink and black barring on the body. The similarly-striped hindwings are often concealed.

It frequents woodland and suburban habitats.

Flies in June and July, with a single generation.

The large caterpillar is even more spectacular than the moth, being bright green with lilac and white stripes along the side, and a curved black 'horn' at the rear. It feeds on Privet, Lilac and Ash.

It is fairly frequent in the southern half of Britain. In a recent survey to determine the status of all macro moths in Britain this species was classified as common.

Fairly frequent but not common in Leicestershire and Rutland. L&R Moth Group status = B (scarce resident or restricted distribution or regular migrant).