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What kind of moth is this #848166

Asked September 01, 2023, 7:43 AM EDT

These caterpillars were found in Winona county on Sugarloaf bluff. All I could find is they seem to be native to Poland? Thank you for any information.

Winona County Minnesota

Expert Response

Hi Diane,

This is a leafy spurge hawk moth caterpillar. It was introduced to this country in the 1960s to fight leafy spurge, an invasive plant. So consider it not only beautiful, but a friend.

https://www.caterpillaridentification.org/information.php?primary_name=spurge-hawk-moth-caterpillar

https://fmr.org/september-%C2%97-leafy-spurge-hawkmoth

Thanks for the question.

MJ Replied September 01, 2023, 5:39 PM EDT

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