Poplar Hawkmoth
Laothoe populi
Tap image to enlarge · Wikimedia Commons
Overview
Britain's most commonly encountered hawkmoth, the Poplar Hawkmoth has an unusual rest posture — wings held out and body raised, creating an angular shape that resembles a broken twig. When threatened, it flashes vivid orange-red hindwings. Named in Green Sefton's moth accounts as a Sefton Coast species. The adult doesn't feed at all — all energy reserves come from larval feeding. Larvae are large and green with diagonal white stripes, found on Poplar, Willow and Sallow in the dune scrub.
At a Glance
| Order | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Sphingidae |
| Habitat | Woodland edge · Dune scrub with Willow · Riverside Poplar |
| Diet | Adults: do not feed. Larvae: Poplar, Willow, Aspen. |
| UK population | Common throughout Britain; one of the most frequently encountered hawkmoths |
| Sefton Coast | Present wherever Poplar and Willow trees grow near the Sefton Coast; regular in moth traps |
| Conservation | UK Green List |
Where to See It
Formby pinewoods and any area with Poplar and Willow trees near the Sefton Coast.
Identification
Large moth. Grey-brown wings with wavy markings. When at rest, wings held in angular, 'broken twig' posture. Hindwings show vivid orange-red when disturbed. No feeding tube (adults do not feed).
Viewing & Photography Tips
A moth trap run near the dune scrub in June will regularly produce Poplar Hawkmoths. By day, check tree trunks near Willows and Poplars for resting adults.
Conservation Status
UK Green List
This species has a favourable conservation status in the UK and remains an important part of Sefton Coast biodiversity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the Poplar Hawkmoth not feed as an adult?
Poplar Hawkmoths belong to a group of moths that have vestigial mouthparts — they physically cannot feed. All their energy for adult life (flying, mating, egg-laying) comes from fat reserves built up during the caterpillar stage. As a result, adults live only a few weeks. This is why females must mate quickly and lay eggs efficiently.
Related Species
Plan your visit to the Sefton Coast
Marshside RSPB, Formby pinewoods, Ainsdale NNR — practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.