Lime Hawkmoth caterpillar

[Anzu]

Last week I was having a nice pub lunch by the river under a willow tree, when *thud* a 3" long lime hawkmoth caterpillar fell onto the ground.

After grabbing it and sneaking it off from the pub (with some amusement from the table next to us) I placed it in a container with a hearty layer of soil where it proceeded to bury itself.

So
1.There weren't any other trees close by so was it eating the willow tree?
2. Will it emerge next spring sometime?
3. Any tips on looking after this caterpillar?

Thank you for looking

[Hedera]

They usually eat lime or alder; the Eyed hawkmoth eats willow and looks a bit like the Lime pupa.

[Anzu]

Originally Posted by Hedera

They usually eat lime or alder; the Eyed hawkmoth eats willow and looks a bit like the Lime pupa.

Oo interesting, perhaps it is the eyed hawkmoth caterpillar then. It had a blue 'spike' at the rear and two yellow stripes on the head and looking at some photos it looks the same. Well at least it pupated and doesn't need food anymore.

Any tips on looking after this pupa?

[Lance Morgan]

Keep it in a tin or plastic container with a lid in an unheated shed or garage. bring it out in april/may and it will emerge.

[Hedera]

Also place some twigs or sticks inside then, so that it can climb up and inflate its wings. Keep it cool.

[Anzu]

Thank you guys, he is in the large container with twigs that he pupated in and is currently in the shed. Can't wait to see him as a moth, do I need to provide any moisture for him during his stay?

[Lance Morgan]

Not in the winter, it will die in captivity. In the spring spray with a little
clean water daily until it emerges.

[Anzu]

Cool Thank you Lance

[mk]

Hi,
I found a lime hawkmoth larva slightly earlier than you did, (during August),
It has pupated under soil in a container which i'm keeping in the shed,
have you got any other advice,
many thanks,
MK.