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Hyles livornica
Wingspan: 60--85mm. Similar to many other species of the genus, but with distinctive, white forewing venation. Although extremely variable in size, with some individuals dwarfing others, it exhibits very little other variation except in the intensity of coloration and degree of pattern. In the southern Sahara, small pale individuals occur which are referable to f. saharae Stauder (1921a). This is in agreement with Speidel & Hassler (1989). ADULT BIOLOGY A noted migrant, generally found in open ground with few trees and shrubs, such as rough grazing land, parched hillsides and sand-dunes, or in vineyards. In semi-desert areas, huge numbers can build up during winter and spring, especially after heavy rains.
spotted at home,
Sorry for the mess with the IDs, Sachin. I have revised to be Hyles livornica:
http://tpittaway.tripod.com/sphinx/h_liv...
Notice how the abdomen pattern better fits your spotting.
http://tpittaway.tripod.com/sphinx/h_ner...
This is definitely not the Oleander Hawk Moth, D. nerii. Daphnis nerii does not have such uniform white markings. This is a moth in the genus Hyles, which is widely known for its white markings with beautiful lines. I assume this is Hyles nervosa, for the pattern is starkly similar, and the range fits perfectly. Please confirm my identification, though I am highly confident this is Hyles sp., Hyles nervosa. See here for the Oleander Hawk-moth:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daphnis_ner...
Notice the green markings which are absent in your spotting.
Spotted on Aug 14, 2012
Submitted on Aug 14, 2012
+3
