Privet hawk-moth, Sphinx ligustri
The UK’s largest resident hawk-moth, this species has a wingspan of up to 12cm. Its greyish-brown forewings are marked with powdery white lines on the outer edge. The hindwings are pink and black banded and are often ‘flashed’ or displayed if the moth is disturbed. The body is also pink with black bands. It is active at night, and is on the wing in June and July. Some years ago, when privet hedges were more popular, the privet hawk moth was regarded as a common insect in many urban areas. However, it is much less common today, although still widespread in southern parts of the UK.
