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Willowherb hawk-moth

Willowherb hawk-moth

Proserpinus proserpina

A species of Proserpinus, Also known as Willowherb sphinx moth

The delicate creature known as willowherb hawk-moth flutters primarily at dusk, navigating through twilight with its distinctively tapered forewings that cut through the dimming air. Its caterpillars feast voraciously on herbaceous matter, later metamorphosing into adults with a penchant for sipping nectar. This variety of winged being exhibits a mutualistic relationship with the flowering plants it pollinates, playing a subtle yet vital role in the ecosystems it inhabits.

General Info About Willowherb hawk-moth
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Attributes of Willowherb hawk-moth
Colors
Brown
Black
Green
Yellow
Gray
White
Habitat
Moist area; warm area; wetland; gravel pit; meadow ditch; stream bank
Adult Food Sources
Lonicera (honeysuckle), asclepias (milkweed), syringa (lilac), phlox, valeriana (valerian)
Larva Food Source
Epilobium (willowherbs), vitis (grapevines), oenothera (evening primrose), clarkia
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Willowherb 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 Willowherb 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 Willowherb 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 Willowherb hawk-moth
Widely distributed
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Distribution Area of Willowherb hawk-moth
Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belgium, Bulgaria, Denmark, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Italy, Kazakhstan, Lebanon, Morocco, Netherlands, Portugal, Poland Spain, Switzerland, Syria, Turkey
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Life Cycle of Willowherb hawk-moth
Egg The egg is the first life stage of willowherb hawk-moth. These are typically laid on host plants and are small, spherical, and vary in color. Metamorphosis begins as the embryo develops inside.
Larva After hatching, the larva of willowherb hawk-moth appears worm-like, with a focus on eating and growth. It sheds its skin multiple times, becoming larger with each molt. Body patterns and colors change to camouflage or warn predators.
Pupal The willowherb hawk-moth enters pupation, forming a cocoon or chrysalis. Inside, dramatic transformation occurs, body structures break down and reorganize. This immobile stage sees development of wings, antennae, and legs.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult willowherb hawk-moth’s development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction.
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Predators of Willowherb hawk-moth Larvae
Birds, wasps, ants, spiders
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Predators of Adult Willowherb hawk-moth
Bats, birds, spiders
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Interesting Facts About Willowherb hawk-moth
Willowherb hawk-moth larvae can perform a striking color change, shifting from green to violet before pupation.
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Scientific Classification of Willowherb hawk-moth
Tips for Finding Willowherb hawk-moth
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Youth Habitat of Willowherb hawk-moth
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Adult Habitat of Willowherb hawk-moth
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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How Can You Attract Willowherb hawk-moth
Willowherb hawk-moth in its adult form might be attracted to specific types of nectar from flowers that bloom at night, as they are nocturnal feeders.
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Habitat Preferences of Willowherb hawk-moth Through Different Life Stages
The willowherb hawk-moth egg stage can commonly be found on the underside of leaves from their preferred host plants. Upon hatching, the caterpillars stay on the host plant but are more visible, typically feeding on leaves and stems. The pupae tend to be in the soil or leaf litter nearby the host plants, making them harder to spot as they are usually well-camouflaged. Searches for the adult willowherb hawk-moth are most successful near nectar sources like flowers or areas with ample host plants at dusk, when they are active and feeding.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Willowherb hawk-moth
For adult willowherb hawk-moth, the most suitable time is during the night since that is when they are most active. For finding larvae, daytime is more appropriate, especially during late summer to early fall which typically corresponds with their growth period.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Willowherb hawk-moth
Mild to warm temperatures and low wind conditions are generally suitable for both adult and larval stages of willowherb hawk-moth. Adults may be sensitive to extreme temperatures and may not be active during cold weather.
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How and Where Can You Find Willowherb hawk-moth at Different Life Stages
Egg Willowherb hawk-moth eggs are often laid on the underside of host plant leaves. To find them, check the leaves of their preferred plants, using a gentle touch to avoid damaging the eggs.
Larva Larvae can frequently be found on or near their host plants, where they feed. Look for willowherb hawk-moth larvae by inspecting the stems, leaves, and surrounding area of the host plants during the day.
Pupal Willowherb hawk-moth pupae may be in the soil or leaf litter near the host plant. Carefully sifting through the top layer of soil or debris around the host plant's base may reveal the pupae.
Adult Adult willowherb hawk-moths are attracted to light and can be found feeding on flowers that open or produce nectar at night. Set up a light trap with a white sheet at night to observe and possibly attract them.
Are Willowherb hawk-moth harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Willowherb 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
Prefer Plant Type
Yellow Flowers, Evening-Primrose
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Smell
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar, Accidental Contamination While Feeding On Nectar
Willowherb hawk-moth hovers like a hummingbird while feeding on nectar and pollen from flowers. This moth is attracted to especially fragrant and colorful blooms and is adept at transferring pollen as it moves from flower to flower.
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