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Oleander hawk-moth

Oleander hawk-moth

Daphnis nerii

A species of Daphnis, Also known as Oleander hawk moth

Daphnis nerii, the oleander hawk-moth or army green moth, is a moth of the family Sphingidae. It was described by Carl Linnaeus in his 1758 10th edition of Systema Naturae.

General Info About Oleander hawk-moth
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Attributes of Oleander hawk-moth
Colors
Brown
Green
White
Pink
Habitat
Daphnis nerii is a large hawk-moth found in wide areas of Africa, Asia and certain Hawaiian Islands where it was introduced to control invasive introduced oleanders as well as to pollinate the endangered Brighamia insignis and Brighamia rockii which had previously had to be hand pollinated. It is a migratory species, flying to parts of eastern and southern Europe during the summer, particularly Turkey.
Adult Food Sources
Flower nectar from plants such as honeysuckle (lonicera spp.), bougainvillea (bougainvillea spp.), petunia (petunia spp.), jasmine (jasminum spp.), and orchids (orchidaceae family)
Larva Food Source
Oleander (nerium oleander), desert rose (adenium obesum), periwinkle (vinca spp.), almond (prunus dulcis), and jasmine (jasminum spp.)
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
The Oleander hawk-moth can induce toxic reactions varying in severity. Nevertheless, these toxins primarily target their prey and predators and are usually not fatal to humans.
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Oleander hawk-moth is often found near the corolla, where its fluffy hairs easily pick up pollen, assisting in the pollination of the plant.
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Oleander hawk-moth feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Distribution Area of Oleander hawk-moth
Daphnis nerii is a large hawk-moth found in wide areas of Africa, Asia and certain Hawaiian Islands where it was introduced to control invasive introduced oleanders as well as to pollinate the endangered Brighamia insignis and Brighamia rockii which had previously had to be hand pollinated. It is a migratory species, flying to parts of eastern and southern Europe during the summer, particularly Turkey.
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Life Cycle of Oleander hawk-moth
Egg The egg period for oleander hawk-moth involves laying spherical or oval-shaped eggs on host plants. At this stage, the embryo develops within a protective shell, accumulating energy for the next phase.
Larva During this stage, oleander hawk-moth grows rapidly, molting several times as it outgrows its exoskeleton. Larvae are caterpillars, exhibiting various colors and patterns for camouflage or warning, with dedicated feeding structures.
Pupal The pupal stage is a time of transformation inside a cocoon or chrysalis where oleander hawk-moth reorganizes its body. During this phase, tissues differentiate into adult structures. The pupa may be concealed or intricately patterned for protection.
Adult Oleander hawk-moth emerges from the pupa with a striking shift in form and function. Wings are prominent and colorful, aiding in dispersal and mate attraction. The body is fully formed for feeding on nectar, and they prioritize reproduction.
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Adult Size of Oleander hawk-moth
8 - 10 cm
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Predators of Oleander hawk-moth Larvae
Birds, rodents, reptiles, invertebrates like ants and wasps
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Predators of Adult Oleander hawk-moth
Bats, birds, spiders, mantises
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Interesting Facts About Oleander hawk-moth
The caterpillar of oleander hawk-moth can change its color to match its surroundings, an incredible adaptation for avoiding predators.
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Scientific Classification of Oleander hawk-moth
Tips for Finding Oleander hawk-moth
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Youth Habitat of Oleander hawk-moth
Forests and Woodlands, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Urban and Suburban Areas, Tropical Rainforests
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Adult Habitat of Oleander hawk-moth
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Tropical Rainforests, Savannas, Mangroves and Coastal Wetlands
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How Can You Attract Oleander hawk-moth
For adult oleander hawk-moth, sweet substances or food that mimics flower nectar would be suitable to use as attractions. Younger stages might be lured with host plants such as Oleander, which they feed on.
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Habitat Preferences of Oleander hawk-moth Through Different Life Stages
The larvae of oleander hawk-moth are typically found on the leaves of oleander, periwinkle, and other dogbane family plants, mainly in tropical and subtropical regions. As for the caterpillars, a search around these food plants in warm climates will increase the likelihood of locating them. The pupae generally reside underground near these host plants. For the adults, scouting near nectar-rich, fragrant flowers at dusk or during the night is most effective, as they are nocturnal and are attracted to these food sources. Landscapes like gardens, woodland edges, and meadows can be promising places to observe the different stages of oleander hawk-moth's development.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Oleander hawk-moth
The best time to find adult oleander hawk-moth is usually at dusk or during the night, as they are primarily nocturnal and attracted to light sources. For eggs, larvae, and pupae, daytime exploration is more suitable, as they are less mobile and can be found on or near host plants.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Oleander hawk-moth
Warm, dry weather without strong winds is generally the most suitable for finding oleander hawk-moth, as it will be active in favorable conditions, and visibility will be better for searchers.
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How and Where Can You Find Oleander hawk-moth at Different Life Stages
Egg Oleander hawk-moth eggs can typically be found on the underside of leaves on host plants such as Oleander. Engage in careful inspection of leaves, especially around the veins, to spot the small, spherical eggs.
Larva Oleander hawk-moth larvae can be seen feeding on host plants, and are characterized by their size and vibrant color patterns including green with eye-like spots. Look for tell-tale signs of feeding such as notches on leaf edges or frass (larval droppings) to locate them.
Pupal Oleander hawk-moth pupae may be in the soil or in leaf litter near the host plants. Carefully sift through the top layers of soil or debris around known larval food sources to find the camouflaged pupae.
Adult Oleander hawk-moth, when in its adult moth stage, can be found near light sources after dusk. They can also be attracted using baits made with sweet substances. Pay attention to the environment and reduce noise and movement to increase the chance of spotting them.
Are Oleander hawk-moth harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Oleander hawk-moth
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Hurt Plant

Oleander hawk-moth inflicts harm to plants like oleander, desert rose, and periwinkle through its feeding activity. The larval stage particularly targets leaves, where they chew plant tissues, leading to defoliation. The subsequent loss of foliage impairs photosynthesis and can weaken the overall health of the plant.

More Effects of Oleander hawk-moth

Beneficial Effects of Oleander hawk-moth
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Prefer Plant Type
Oleander, Jasmine
Attract Plant Feature
Smell
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar
Oleander hawk-moth is attracted by the intense fragrance of certain flowers such as oleander and jasmine. As it feeds on nectar, it accidentally collects and transfers pollen, aiding in the fertilization of other plants.
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