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Poplar hawk-moth

Poplar hawk-moth

Laothoe populi

A species of Laothoe

Residing primarily in woodlands and gardens, poplar hawk-moth displays a remarkable ability for camouflage, with wing patterns that expertly mimic the colors and textures of deciduous tree bark, enhancing its concealment from predators. This species is known for a unique defense mechanism; its caterpillars exhibit a horn-like projection on their posterior end, which can deter attackers. As it transitions from juvenile to adulthood, its diet shifts from the leaves of broadleaf trees to the nectar of flowering plants.

General Info About Poplar hawk-moth
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Attributes of Poplar hawk-moth
Colors
Brown
Black
Red
Habitat
forest; river bank; wetland; garden; park
Adult Food Sources
Lonicera (honeysuckle), syringa (lilac), vicia (vetch), lobelia, nicotiana (tobacco)
Larva Food Source
Populus (poplar), salix (willow), ulmus (elm), betula (birch), alnus (alder)
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Poplar hawk-moth is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Poplar 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 Poplar 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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Species Status of Poplar hawk-moth
It is found throughout the Palearctic region and the Near East.
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Distribution Area of Poplar hawk-moth
Palearctic region, the Near East
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Appearance of Poplar hawk-moth
Adults may be seen from May to September, and do not feed, not having a functional proboscis, and can vary in colour from grey to yellow. The larva is green, feeds on poplar and some other tree species, and pupates below ground. This is a large (wingspan 7 - 10 cm), odd-looking, species due to its habit of resting with its hindwings held further forward than (but still half hidden by) the forewings (the species lacks a frenulum joining the wings together). The wings are grey marked with darker grey fascia but with the greys occasionally replaced by buffish tones (this form is more frequent among females than males). There is a white spot at the distal edge of the cell on the forewings. The egg is large, spherical, pale green, and glossy, and is laid singly or in pairs on the underside of leaves of the host plant.They are stout bodied, and grow to 7 - 9 cm.
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How to Identify Poplar hawk-moth?

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Life Cycle of Poplar hawk-moth
Egg Recently laid eggs of poplar hawk-moth are minute, round, and somewhat flattened. Initially, they're pearly or pale green, but darken as embryonic development progresses, indicating maturity.
Larva Upon hatching, the larva, or caterpillar of poplar hawk-moth, thrives on foliage, undergoing successive molts. Each stage, called an instar, increases in size, and changes slightly in color and patterning.
Pupal The fully grown larva of poplar hawk-moth forms a cocoon and enters the pupal stage. Inside the protective casing, it undergoes a drastic transformation, as its tissues reorganize into the adult form.
Adult Emerging from the cocoon as a moth, the adult poplar hawk-moth displays vibrant colors and developed wings. It's larger than earlier stages, now focusing on mating and laying eggs.
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Adult Size of Poplar hawk-moth
7 - 10 cm
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Predators of Poplar hawk-moth Larvae
Birds, rodents, insectivorous mammals, wasps, ants, spiders
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Predators of Adult Poplar hawk-moth
Bats, birds, rodents, larger insects, spiders
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Interesting Facts About Poplar hawk-moth
Poplar hawk-moth larvae exhibit a unique defense mechanism by rearing up and swelling their thoraxes when threatened, mimicking a snake to deter predators.
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Scientific Classification of Poplar hawk-moth
Tips for Finding Poplar hawk-moth
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Youth Habitat of Poplar hawk-moth
Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Adult Habitat of Poplar hawk-moth
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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How Can You Attract Poplar hawk-moth
Honeysuckle, jasmine, or other fragrant, nectar-rich flowers can be used as bait to attract adult poplar hawk-moth due to their feeding habits.
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Habitat Preferences of Poplar hawk-moth Through Different Life Stages
The egg stage of poplar hawk-moth can typically be found on the underside of leaves of host plants such as poplars and willows. Searching for the caterpillar phase requires investigating the foliage of these same trees during feeding times, often at night, where they rest on stems or blend with the leaves. Pupae are usually underground in a shallow chamber, so searching involves carefully excavating around the base of the host plants. Adults are primarily active at dusk. They are attracted to flowers or can be spotted resting on the bark of trees during the day, camouflaged by their wing pattern.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Poplar hawk-moth
Evening or nighttime is the most suitable time to find adult poplar hawk-moth, as they are primarily nocturnal and are attracted to light sources or scented plants during these hours.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Poplar hawk-moth
Warm, humid, and calm weather conditions are ideal since poplar hawk-moth prefer such conditions for flying and are more active when it is not too cold or windy.
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How and Where Can You Find Poplar hawk-moth at Different Life Stages
Egg Poplar hawk-moth eggs are often found laid on the leaves of host plants such as poplar or willow. Look for them by carefully inspecting the underside of leaves for small, spherical objects.
Larva Poplar hawk-moth larvae can be found on the leaves of their host plants, where they feed. Search for them by checking both sides of leaves for caterpillars that may be camouflaged as part of the plant.
Pupal The poplar hawk-moth pupae may be found in the soil or leaf litter near host plants. Locating them involves gently sifting through the top layer of soil or exploring the debris at the base of the plant.
Adult Adult poplar hawk-moth can be located by setting up a light trap at night, as they are attracted to light. Alternatively, planting nectar-rich flowers or using bait can lure them during their active hours in the evening.
Are Poplar hawk-moth harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Poplar hawk-moth
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Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Smell
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar
Poplar hawk-moth is an industrious forager, darting from flower to flower, primarily lured by their vivid colors and enticing scents. It indulges in the sweet nectar while inadvertently dusting itself with pollen, which is then transferred to neighboring blooms, fostering plant reproduction.
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