Privet hawkmoth

Sphinx ligustri Linnaeus, 1758

Distribution: A Transpalearctic species found widely from North Africa to Japan, including Ukraine.

Bionomics: Privet Hawk Moths inhabit various forested and ecotone areas, primarily flying from May to July. In the south, they have two generations. They are active at dusk and night, feeding on nectar from fragrant flowers. Females lay eggs singly or in groups on food plant leaves. Larvae feed on privet, ash, gorse, lilac, and other plants. Pupation occurs in the soil.

Abundance and Conservation: Common throughout Ukraine, with a stable population, not requiring special conservation measures.