elephant hawk moth
A species of hawk moth (Deilephila elpenor) with pink and olive-green coloration. The Japanese name literally means 'crimson sparrow'.
The caterpillar of the elephant hawk moth feeds on willowherb and other plants.
In the evening, elephant hawk moths come flying to feed on flower nectar.
Kanji spelling exists but is rarely used; the katakana form is strongly preferred.
The name ベニスズメ (紅天蛾) combines 紅 (べに, 'crimson') and スズメ (雀, 'sparrow'), likely referring to the moth's pinkish coloration and its swift, sparrow-like flight. The exact origin is uncertain.