THE CATERPILLAR of a rare migrant moth ordinarily found in Africa has been discovered at Saul Junction, Butterfly Conservation (BC) has revealed.

The lime green and blue Death’s-head Hawk-moth caterpillar was last seen in Gloucestershire ten years ago.

The caterpillar can grow up to 12 and a half centimetres long with the black and yellow, bat-sized adult moth last being recorded in the county in 1983.

Sue Smith, chairman of BC’s Gloucestershire Branch, said: “This is an extremely rare find for the county given that the last time this unusual caterpillar was seen here was in 2005 and only four were recorded before 2000.”

It was discovered at Saul Junction by the Gloucester and Sharpness Canal last month and will mostly likely be the result of eggs laid by the few early spring arrivals of the Death’s-head Hawk-moth, a species which cannot survive winters in this country.

Sue added: “The caterpillar of this fascinating moth can grow quite large and their spikey-looking tail can appear intimidating, but they are completely harmless to people and animals.

“Its appearance is a short-lived but completely natural phenomenon and they are extremely difficult to find, so to see one is a moment to treasure. If anyone else spots one in Gloucestershire, please let Butterfly Conservation know.”

Sightings of the adult Death’s-head Hawk-moth and its caterpillar are still being reported to the wildlife charity from other parts of the UK. If you see one, email the details to info@butterfly-conservation.org.