Large moths

During the summer several large moths are active in the locality. These include the Elephant Hawkmoth with a wingspan of 45-60 mm, the Poplar Hawkmoth (70-100 mm) and the Garden Tiger (45-65 mm). These have all been recorded in Baltrasna and Marlinstown in the past few years. This morning an additional large moth was recorded in Marlinstown for the first time.

This is the spectacular Eyed Hawkmoth (Smerinthus ocellata) and is of the same immediate family as the Poplar Hawkmoth. It has a wingspan of 70-80 mm. Its larva feeds on willows, apple trees and crab apple trees (both wild and cultivated). Although you might not spot this important pollinator at night, you might see its large lime-green caterpillar during the day (from June to September).