69.002 BF1980 – Eyed Hawk-moth – Sphingidae – Smerinthus ocellata
Eyed Hawk-moth – Sphingidae – Smerinthinae – Smerinthus ocellata – colour code •
STATUS – A resident species that is widely distributed and locally common throughout Derbyshire. Has been recorded in all areas of the county but only common in the Trent valley and southern coal measures.
ID POINTERS – When disturbed, unmistakable, large eye-spots in the centre of the pinkish hind wing. The moth also has a habit of swaying, this apparently has been proved to deter insectivorous birds.
FLIGHT PERIOD – On the wing May – June
IMAGES – Kings Newton & Melbourne – Images by Tony Davison©
