Eyed Hawk Moth (Smerinthus ocellatus)
The eyed hawk moth is a member of the hawk moth family. It is recognizable from the striking eyespots on its hindwings, which it uses to startle predators and will sometimes even display them while resting as a means of distraction.
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Scientific Classification
- Family: Sphingidae
- Genus: Smerinthus
- Scientific Name: Smerinthus ocellatus
Description and Identification
Caterpillar
It is pale blue or yellowish-green, with small white-tipped tubercles and a gray-blue horn on its posterior end. The sides are striped yellow or white, and its stigma is white with dark red circles. They are about 80mm long.
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Pupa
The pupa is glossy and reddish-brown. After fully maturing, the larva pupates below the soil.
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Adult Moth
Sexual Dimorphism: Present but not prominent.
Color and Appearance:
The thorax is light brown with dark brown hairs in the middle.
Forewing: When the wings are open, they resemble the color of tree bark with a mixture of light and dark brown. When the wings are closed, the resemblance remains, allowing them near-perfect camouflage.
Hindwing: When the wings are opened, two blue “eyespots” or ocelli surrounded by black rims are visible. They are pink at the base, along with a yellow ochre color. The eyespots become hidden when the wings are closed.
Average wingspan: 70–80 mm
Flight pattern: Consistent
Season: May to July
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Egg
They are light green. The female moths lay 1-4 eggs at a time.
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Quick Facts
| Distribution | England, Ireland, and Wales |
| Habitat | Woodlands, suburban gardens |
| Lifespan of Adults | 5-14 days |
| Host Plants | Apple, sallow, and willow |
| Adult Diet | Does not feed |
Did You Know
- Swedish zoologist Carl Linnaeus first described this species in the 10th edition of his book, Systema Naturae, in 1758.
- While there are three known subspecies, only Smerinthus ocellatus ocellatus is considered a true subspecies. Smerinthus ocellatus atlanticus is sometimes considered a full species. Under such circumstances, Smerinthus atlanticus protai becomes its subspecies, not of Smerinthus ocellatus.
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Scientific Classification
- Family: Sphingidae
- Genus: Smerinthus
- Scientific Name: Smerinthus ocellatus
