Deathshead Hawkmoth Caterpillar from South Africa

Subject:  Large brown and white caterpillar
Geographic location of the bug:  Pretoria, South Africa
Date: 04/05/2021
Time: 05:04 PM EDT
Your letter to the bugman:  Good day, can you please tell me what the name of this caterpillar is and what its moth looks like? It’s the first time ever I’ve encountered such a caterpillar on my property. The photo was taken at mid day in late summer. I have found a few iStock photos of the same variant, but it unfortunately doesn’t identify the caterpillar.
How you want your letter signed:  Sincerely, Anette

Death’s Head Hawkmoth Caterpillar

Dear Anette,
This is a more uncommon color variation of a Death’s Head Hawkmoth Caterpillar, Acherontia atropos, a caterpillar that is more typically bright yellow and green.  The markings on the body of the adult moth are thought to resemble a skull, hence the common name Death’s Head Hawkmoth.

Hi Daniel,
Thank you very much for your reply.
It is much appreciated.
Kind regards,
Anette

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