Lime, Eyed and Poplar Hawk-moth caterpillars have all been recorded but the commonest by far has been the Elephant Hawk-moth caterpillar.
Last year this was the most commonly reported species and this year looks as if it is going to be a repeat.
Hawk-moth caterpillars are most frequently sighted at this time of year as they leave their food plants and go for a wander to find a place to pupate in the soil.
There are several different colour forms of the caterpillar with the most commonly recorded being a brownish grey (above right)Malcolm Haddock sent in the image right of a green form seen at the RSPB Old Moor Reserve near Doncaster.
And, as if seeing this magnificent caterpillar wasn’t enough, Malcom also saw a Great White Egret, a bird hopefully establishing itself as a breeding bird in the British Isles.
Many thanks Malcolm for your record and sharing your image.