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Daphnis nerii

Oleander hawk-moth

Description

Daphnis nerii, the oleander hawk-moth, is a striking migratory moth of the family Sphingidae. It regularly flies from Africa and Asia to southern and occasionally central Europe. Adults are active at dusk and night, feeding on nectar from fragrant flowers. The larvae develop mainly on Nerium oleander, but can also feed on other Apocynaceae, such as Tabernaemontana and Vinca. In warm regions, the species may have multiple generations annually. Larvae can reach up to 8.5 cm in length and show striking green or brown colors with characteristic eyespots. Though feeding on host plants' foliage, D. nerii is not considered a serious pest, as larval densities are usually low and damage is minor and mostly aesthetic.

Symptom

Large green or brown caterpillars on leaves; defoliation of shoots, especially on Nerium oleander; feeding marks along leaf edges.

Tree Species: Oleander

Part of a plant- attacked: Leaf / Needle

Pest significance: Less harmful

Pest Category: Insects

Invasive Species: No

Present in EU: Yes