The Hummingbird Clearwing Moth (Hemaris thysbe) visits flowers by day throughtout the eastern half of the US and Canada. Also known as the “Common Clearwing,” this moth sips nectar from flowers using its long feeding tube or proboscis, which rolls up when not in use. This species of moth belongs to the family Sphingidae – a group that incudes Hawk Moths, Sphinx Moths, and Hornworms. The family is distinguished by rapid and sustained flying ability – flying backwards, gliding side to side, or hovering in place. Some, like the moth in the photo above, are sometimes mistaken for Hummingbirds. The larvae or caterpillars of some species can be very destructive of garden flowers and vegetables.
Not all moths in this family are as large or noticeable as the Hummingbird Clearwing, but all lay their egs on a specific host plant. The Ash Sphinx, Elm Sphinx, Apple Sphinx, Laurel Sphinx, Wild Cherry Sphinx, and Pine Hawk moth are examples.
For more photo and information on the life cycle of the Hummingbird Clearwing Moth, click on the following link: http://www.cirrusimage.com/moths_hummingbird_clearwing.htm
A Hummingbird Clearwing Moth sips nectar from flowers on a Buttefly Bush. Photo by Jean Williams Mattson of Townsend, MA
