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Identity

Acherontia atropos is a sphingid moth distinct from the Asian Acherontia lachesis. The basal half of the hindwing is yellow in A. atropos; A. lachesis has extensive black markings in this region. [1]

Morphology and identification

The forewings are brown-black with variable ochre markings, including a broad apical patch. The pale skull-like mark on the thorax is characteristic, although it can be poorly developed. Yellow hindwings carry dark bands that vary in width and can merge. [1]

The abdomen is yellow and black. On its underside the black segmental bands extend across the whole width; very dark individuals may have little visible yellow. The antennae are short and stout, particularly in females. [1]

Distribution and habitat

In Britain, adults arrive as migrants from southern Europe, especially in late summer and autumn. A 2022 tracking study followed autumn migrants departing from southern Germany towards the Mediterranean. [2][3]

Feeding and host plants

British larval records include potato, Solanum tuberosum. Adults enter honeybee colonies to take honey with a short, stout proboscis. [2][4]

Behaviour

Radio transmitters allowed researchers to follow individual moths during nocturnal migration. Detailed tracks showed directed flight and responses to changing winds, including adjustments in flight speed and altitude. The observations demonstrated active flight-path control rather than simple downwind transport. [3]

Distinctive biology

The adult squeak has two successive acoustic phases associated with drawing air in and expelling it through the feeding apparatus. Anatomical imaging identified a modified epipharynx in the throat. Experimental removal of the proboscis did not abolish sound production, although the sound became shorter and quieter. [4]