Even if you’re not a fan of bugs, the hummingbird moth may just change your mind. Although this critter hovers, buzzes, and flits from flower-to-flower (just like a hummingbird), it is indeed a bug.
Let’s discover more about this fascinating insect.
Did you know?
1. There are several species of the hummingbird moth. These include the Hummingbird Hawk-Moth, Sphinx moth, Common Clearwing Hummingbird moth, Snowberry Clearwing Hummingbird moth, Five-Spotted Hawkmoth, and the White-Lined Sphinx.
2. Just like a hummingbird, the humming sound it makes is produced from its fast-moving wings. In fact, it can beat its wings up to 70 beats-per-second (depending on the species). Plus, it can fly up to 12 miles-per-hour (19 kph).
3. This beautiful moth starts out as a large green worm with horn-like appendages. It is called the Tobacco Hornworm. This caterpillar loves to munch on tomato plant leaves.
4. Like a butterfly, the hummingbird moth has a long tongue-like proboscis. It is about double the length of its body. It rolls out to reach the nectar deep inside the flower.
5. To help protect itself from predators, the hummingbird moth has large, menacing eyes.
6. These moths range in length from 2 to 2.5 inches long (5 to 6.4 centimeters). They are covered in gray hair (that looks like feathers), with white, rust or brown markings. Their wingspan ranges from 2 to 6 inches (5 to 15 centimeters), depending on the species.
7. The Snowberry Clearwing hummingbird moth has clear wings.
8. These moths can be found in North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Check out this video on the Hawk Moth in action. It’s super-cool!
What do you think of the hummingbird moth? Leave us your comments. We love to hear from our readers!
