Lime Hawkmoth

ADULT: Wingspan 70-80mm. Variable in colour and design especially forewing markings. The central cross-band is occasionally broken with the background colour varying from yellow-brown to reddish-brown becoming greenish towards the jagged trailing edge. A whitish patch is present near the forewing tips. The hindwings are yellowish-brown. CHRYSALIS: Dark grey-brown with wrinkled surface. Located at base of lime and elm. Found throughout winter. LARVA: July to September on lime, alder and birch usually towards the canopy. BEHAVIOUR: Attracted to light. HABITAT: Deciduous woodland where foodplant grows. Also parks and gardens. FLIGHT PERIOD: Single brooded. May to June. STATUS: Resident. Common.