This summer has been wonderful for sightings of a type of moth that I find very cute and appealing.
There are several species that flit from flower to flower during the day and I have been lucky enough to find four of them.
These are fast moving, small insects who usually mimic either hummingbirds, bees, or wasps. It has been quite a challenge to catch them in flight or as they hover and sip nectar.
Nessus Sphinx Moth
Squash Vine Borer Moth
Hummingbird Clearwing Moth
Snowberry Clearwing Moth
Snowberry Clearwing attacking Hummingbird Clearwing
I noticed that Snowberry moths will chase each other in territorial clashes but are much more aggressive with Hummingbird moths, often making physical contact.
Next time you think you've seen a hummingbird or a bee at a flower, take a closer look!
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