Impressive specimen

WEDNESDAY WFH Day #112

Another day on the computer doing some policy research and some fire safety documentation. Also a CPD webinar about water borne infections early afternoon..

I managed a short walk at lunch time and another one this evening.

I had to chase after the postman this afternoon and almost stepped on this Elephant Hawk Moth caterpillar which was crossing the drive. At almost nine centimetres long it was an impressive specimen.

Elephant hawk moth (Deilephila elpenor)
Length: 80-85mm
Appearance: The elephant hawk moth has an impressive caterpillar. Named because of its likeness to an elephant's trunk, this chunky caterpillar is usually brown, although some are green in colour. It has large eye spots, a spiky tail and scale-like markings. This makes it look somewhat snake-like in appearance. When threatened, it can swell up, making itself appear bigger. The caterpillar will also make the most of its large eye spots if in danger.
Diet: It enjoys a diet of rosebay willowherb, bedstraw and Himalayan balsam.
When to see: This caterpillar is usually seen from July to September.
Where to see: It favours rough grassland, woodland rides and clearings, hedgerows and gardens.