Hawk Moth Caterpillar

Oleander Hawk Moth (Daphnis nerii), larval stage

Oleander Hawk Moth, larva (Daphnis nerii)
Location: Kohala Coast, Big Island, Hawaii

This colorful caterpillar is the larval stage of the Oleander Hawk Moth (Daphnis nerii).  We see just a few of these around our garden every year.  This one was about 2 inches (5 cm) long.   I love the great big eye spots.

The caterpillar in this photo is in the late larval stage.  Next it will become a pupa.  Eventually, when its development is complete, the adult moth will emerge.  Tomorrow I'll post a photo of the adult moth - the final product of this creature's metamorphosis.

6 comments:

2sweetnsaxy said...

I don't like bugs and things but still can't deny how amazing they are and that there are so many different kinds, beautiful in their own little creepy ways.
Excellent shot of this one and thanks for the info on it.
:-)

Ryanne said...

Whoa! That is one really cool looking caterpillar! I don't think I have ever seen one like that before! Great picture.

xoBeau said...

Wow! This little guy is great! Love the detail of your blog! I will be back!

BNS said...

Thank you all. Hope you have a look at the following post to see what this caterpillar turned into.

Bobbie

JunieRose2005 said...

Bobbie,


I'm happy you checked out my similar-looking moth! :)

I will be doing an update on the most recent one of these that I have found. (He's dead but I got his picture anyway!! :) )

Junie

@J0eSmith said...

How can I send you a top view photo next to a dollar bill (for size). From Kihei.