death’s head moth

The death's-head moth, specifically Acherontia atropos, is a large, dark hawk moth recognized by markings on its thorax that resemble a human skull. This moth is primarily found in Mediterranean regions. Hawk moths, in general (family Sphingidae), are known for their swift, hovering flight and stout bodies. They possess long, narrow forewings and shorter hindwings, with wingspans ranging from 5 to 20 cm.12

While many hawk moths pollinate flowers like orchids and petunias with their long proboscis, the death's-head moth has a short proboscis and often feeds on honey from beehives. These moths can produce loud chirping or squeaking sounds by expelling air through their proboscis, and their larvae make distinct cracking noises.2