Privet Hawk Moth, Wymondham, Bob Carpenter 1/3
Privet hawkmoth, Lower East Carleton, Duncan Macab 2/3
Privet hawkmoth, Clenchwarton, Annabelle Tipper 3/3

Privet Hawkmoth Sphinx ligustri

Spread widely across the southern half of Britain, the moth can be seen in woodland, scrub and gardens. Its caterpillar feeds on wild privet, lilac and ash. The adults can sometimes be seen resting on tree trunks and garden fences.

Conservation status

The privet hawk-moth is a resident species and can commonly be seen in parks and gardens wherever the food plant occurs throughout Norfolk.

Related questions & advice

What is the difference between moths and butterflies?

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The larva descends to the ground to spend the winter deep in the soft, loamy soil and may overwinter more than once. The rich, glossy brown pupa rests in a hollowed-out chamber lined with a few strands of silk.

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