Pine hawk-moth
One of 18 species of British hawk-moths, the pine hawk-moth ‘Sphinx pinastri’ is not the most colourful!
However, it is a good example of what is feeding on pine needles in coniferous woodlands and gardens.
The attractive striped larvae eat Scots pine and Norway spruce needles. Adults feed on flowers after dusk, particularly honeysuckle.
Look out for these moths from May to early August.
They can sometimes be found resting during the day near lights, or you may notice the larva wandering off to pupate in August or September.
Photos: Chris Piper
