Green caterpillar ID

rscott74 · #1 (**permalink**) 18-08-2007, 10:59 AM

This was on my recycle bin this morning. It's about 2cm long. Does anyone know what it is and also what it might feed on. I kept some Elephant Hawk Moth caterpillars a couple of years ago and it was great to see them close up as moths before release.

Deer Stalker · #2 (**permalink**) 18-08-2007, 11:17 AM

I would say Poplar Hawkmoth, but it is only a young one so difficult to say for sure as Lime Hawkmoth looks similar.

rscott74 · #3 (**permalink**) 18-08-2007, 11:28 AM

Thanks DS. Any idea on what it feeds on? It's still there and I would like to give it a home.

Deer Stalker · #4 (**permalink**) 18-08-2007, 11:34 AM

The main foodplants for the Poplar Hawkmoth is Poplar & Aspen, Sallow & Willow.
For Lime Hawkmoths its Lime, Elm, Alder & Birch.
See whats most likely from whats in your garden & the surounding area.

rscott74 · #5 (**permalink**) 18-08-2007, 11:45 AM

THanks again. I've put both willow and birch cuttings in the bin recently so I'll try them. The others you mention are not evident around or near the house.

Deer Stalker · #6 (**permalink**) 18-08-2007, 11:53 AM

Same as with the Elephant Hawkmoths, stick some soil at the bottom of your container for it to pupate in. Book says the Caterpillars are arouond from July to September, moths emerge around May.

rscott74 · #7 (**permalink**) 23-08-2007, 12:41 PM

Just an update. I put the caterpillar in a container with some moist compost and both birch and willow leaves. It showed a preference for willow and is now eating its way through a second supply. I'll wait until it begins to change then put it in a corner of the shed 'til spring.

rscott74 · #8 (**permalink**) 26-05-2008, 05:27 PM

Hey Presto!
This moth emerged overnight after wintering with us. I placed it safely in a willow tree in the garden. This is the second time that I've kept a caterpillar and it's great to get a brief chance to see the outcome. Thanks again for the advice on ID.

Kayleigh · #9 (**permalink**) 26-05-2008, 05:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rscott74

Hey Presto!
This moth emerged overnight after wintering with us. I placed it safely in a willow tree in the garden. This is the second time that I've kept a caterpillar and it's great to get a brief chance to see the outcome. Thanks again for the advice on ID.

Wow! he's a beauty isn't he !