The eyed Hawk Moth has a wingspan up to 5 cm. Adults are pale brown with pinkish brown forewings. The forewings are slightly scalloped with a series of chocolate blotches.
The hind wings are reddish-brown, flushed with a rosy pink hue, and large bluish-grey eyespots. The moth adopts a curious resting posture, where the forewings are held over the hind wings and the body is curled upwards. When threatened, it exposes its hind wings to reveal the large eyespots
An attractive species that is found in small numbers on bogs, marshes, and damp woodland, where willows are common. Adults are attracted to light but usually in very small numbers. The larvae can be found from early June until September on willows and crab apples. They seem to prefer small, often isolated trees, usually in more sheltered spots, you can see them if you look very carefully, resting on the branches near the base of the tree.
This is a common moth on Vancouver Island, but because they blend into their daytime resting spots so well, you can be considered lucky to have seen one.
Saw this beauty in the garden tonight, in Parksville.
I live on Elliot Place in Victoria near Lochside Elementary School. An Eyed Hawk Moth was on the stucco siding next to my door. First time I’ve seen one. Beautiful creature.
Lucky you! In Sooke. I had one come into the house last night and hide on top of the fridge for 24 hrs until it flew out a few minutes ago. I opened the back door and out it went!