A mysterious beauty, Hawkmoth Peru, Sphingidae

[wollastoni]

During a discussion on the web with some Sphingidae specialists (Jean Haxaire, etc...), I have heard about this fantastic caterpillar from Peru which is unknown from Sphingidae specialists.

As we have some Peruvian visitors here, I post it, in case someone has bred it and knows which species it is.

Must be VERY toxic ! 





Isn't she lovely ?

[sensedigger]

Incredible...

[jmg]

Jean Haxaire sent us his opinion on the caterpillar :

Manduca, group reducta (he believes) or leucospila/brunalba. "I will not go further. It is known and famous in our little community, this beast! Should feed the caterpillar to check !"