One of the monks was very keen to have me snap a picture of this huge moth which had been attracting a lot of attention this morning. So, here it is.
I’m off to Harrogate to-day, and then Leeds tomorrow for a day retreat. I’ve a Tom Tom aboard so hopefully it will guide me to my destinations.
That looks like a POPLAR HAWKMOTH – which as the name suggests feeds on poplar and willows. It is quite common and widespread. My field guide says that the wingspan is ~70mm.
Thanks Ray, thats brilliant!