Sphingidae

69.013 Spurge Hawk-moth Hyles euphorbiae (Linnaeus, 1758)

Immigrant

Similar species: Bedstraw Hawk-moth Hyles gallii has narrower cross-bands that do not approach or touch the leading edge.

Forewing: 28 to 31mm

Habitats: Usually near the south coast of England. On the European mainland it is found on sand-dunes, eroded field margins and other open, warm habitats where the foodplants are present.

Habits: The moth comes to light. From dusk onwards it nectars at Rhododendrons and other flowers.

Foodplant: The larva feeds on perennial spurges such as Cypress Spurge, Wood Spurge and Sea Spurge. Records of British larvae (usually in south-east England) are rare.