Sesiidae: Sesiinae

0370 (ABH52.002) Hornet Moth Sesia apiformis, (Clerck, 1759)

KR04030

Eynesbury
Eynesbury
 Photo © Barry Dickerson
Eynesbury
 Photo © Barry Dickerson
 pre-2000
 2000-2009
 2010-2019
 2020-onwards
 Photo © Val Perrin
Eynesbury
Eynesbury
 Photo © Barry Dickerson
Pupal case
Pupal case
 Photo © Barry Dickerson


General Information

This moth is as large as a true Hornet, but is yellower and lacks the wasp-waist.

 

Searches for exit holes and old cocoons can be done any time of the year.

 

Adults can be found at rest on Poplar trunks after emergence, usually early morning, on cool, cloudy days. (7am - 8.30am).

 

Pheromone attractants: api New: hor

Moth activity times: 07:30-10:30.

 

Overwinters as a larva, at least twice just beneath the bark of the food plants.

Overwinters as Overwinters as a larva.
Flies during the day

Forewing length: 17-21mm.
Foodplant(s): Black Poplar (Populus nigra), Aspen (Populus tremula), poplars (Populus spp.)
Flying: One generation, mid June-August
UK Presence: Resident
National status: Nationally Scarce B

Habitat

Open woodland, parks, poplar plantations.

Regional Information

Recorded in 35 (13%) of the 270 2km squares of Huntingdonshire.

Last recorded in July 2022

Recorded date range (Adult): 21 May to 24 July

Recorded date range (Larva/Leafmine): 22 March to 03 November

Similar Species
Lunar Hornet Moth Sesia bembeciformis

Nationally Scarce B

Larva/Leafmine:
Larva Type:
Smooth
Colours:
yellow, white, brown
No. of Proleg Pairs:
5