EsMj067 Hyles dahlii Adult

After collecting 10 larvae in total (supplemented by 4 smaller larvae from another site further east) , they pupating shortly after return to the UK. Two pupae were deformed and unsuccessful, but about 6 weeks later the first of the adults emerged from the remaining healthy pupae. Interestingly, three pupae are still dormant (but still active) even though the last three had emerged in the warm Spring periods, suggesting that some may hold over for another year before completion. Possibly it is a way for the species to ensure continuity against a bad year. Unfortunately, none of the moths attempted mating, so, like some other species they may need a large flight to achieve this.