Lime Hawk-moth by tommorules

Photography • Insects • posted on Jun 03, 2012

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Description

A slightly less clinical view of yesterday's find & post. Looks like I'm lucky to see this here in Derbyshire. With thanks to BIPOLARTWO for the link to ukmoths.org: Lime Hawk-moth Mimas tiliae Wingspan 55-70 mm. A reasonably common species in the southern half of Britain, it was most frequent in the London area, where there are still extensive tree-lined avenues. In recent years its distribution has spread northwards and is now regularly found well into North Yorkshire and beyond. It has a distinctive scalloped-edged forewing, subtly coloured in pinkish and green. The central dark band is quite variable in size and extent. Occupying woodland and suburban habitats, it flies in May and June, and often comes to light. The larvae feed on lime (Tilia) as well as a number of other deciduous trees including birch (Betula), alder (Alnus) and elm (Ulmus). They are typically green with yellow stripes and a blue horn at the rear. When ready to pupate, they change colour to a dull greyish or purplish and begin to wander, looking for a pupation site. This is when they are most often encountered.

Comments (24)

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durleybeachbum

5:23AM | Sun, 03 June 2012

Superb! (I'm still envious!)

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morningglory

6:02AM | Sun, 03 June 2012

Reminds me of a stealth bomber....and dressed for the military also.

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blinkings

6:14AM | Sun, 03 June 2012

What a beautiful creature.

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Gabrielsdream

7:15AM | Sun, 03 June 2012

I remember the thrill of finding one when I was a kid. I had a great interest in butterflies and moths, but that is not at all pc now! Look at that fabulous antenna curling back under the wing. I wonder if you have any macros of the scales on those beautiful wings!

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DAVER2112

7:48AM | Sun, 03 June 2012

Ooooh! Really nice closeup shot. :)

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tofi

8:27AM | Sun, 03 June 2012

A really interesting, and lovely little creature captured at full view! You've really done a fabulous job with the macro view! Exquisite textures and colour!

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