Big-Eyed Caterpillar

This is one of a number of creatures that have large false eyes to frighten predators. Probably the best known UK example is the Peacock butterfly (see http://365project.org/fishers/365/2019-08-27 ).

I think this caterpillar is that of the Elephant Hawk-moth (Deilephila elpenor). If anyone can confirm or correct this identification, I would be pleased to hear from you.

I found it in my mum's garden last weekend.

Ian

[Pyrrhula]

A great (?) find and close up capture.

[Joy]

Great close up capture, Fav

[Junan Heath]

Fabulous find and shot!! Fav

[Peter H]

Wow!

[gloria jones]

Oh my….Super close up shot :)

[bkb in the city]

Great capture

[Steve and Pam Winfield]

Nice close up :)

[Dione Giorgio]

Beautiful close-up. The eyes are very interesting markings.

[Beth]

How interesting. Two big eyes on the same side. I wonder what he turns out to be in his next life.

[Fisher Family]

@pyrrhula @joylay @paintdipper @peadar @seattlite @bkbinthecity @stevepam @sangwann @vernabeth

Thank you all for your comments and favs, they are very much appreciated!

I'm still trying to confirm if this is the caterpillar of the Elephant Hawk-moth (Deilephila elpenor).

Ian

[william wooderson]

Well spotted!

[Fisher Family]

@will_wooderson Thank you William - they are suprisingly well hidden by their colour scheme.

Ian

[Nina Ganci]

great find and capture

[Fisher Family]

@ninaganci Thank you Nina - I was surprised to find such an eye catching creature in my mum's garden.

Ian