Species of large moth moves to Scotland

A HAWK MOTH has been recorded breeding in Scotland for the first time after expanding its range from England.

The Lime hawk-moth was thought to be absent from Scotland, with its northern boundary just south of the Border.

However, a new report reveals a caterpillar was recorded in Victoria Park in Jordanhill, Glasgow, which experts say provides “the first incontrovertible evidence” of the nocturnal species breeding in Scotland.

Dr Tom Prescott, Butterfly Conservation Scotland’s senior conservation officer, said: “The Lime hawk-moth is a spectacular moth, whose distribution has increased significantly since the 1970s. It is quite common in England as far north as southern Cumbria, across to Newcastle, so Glasgow is quite a jump in its range.

“This larval record confirms residence in Scotland for the first time. It is proof it is breeding, which is exciting.”

The Lime hawk-moth (Mimas tiliae) is instantly recognisable by its olive and sand colours, with green patches on its wings, which are frayed to help camouflage.

Adults, which have a wingspan more than three inches, fly on warm nights from May to July and rest during the day to avoid predators.

The Lime hawk-moth is one of five species added to the list of moths resident in Scotland since 2017 – the Blair’s Mocha, in Orkney; Waved Black in Bo-ness, West Lothian;twin-spotted Wainscot in Grangemouth, Stirlingshire; and

Blossom Underwing in Newcastleton, the Borders.