Yes, hummingbird hawk moths are found in the United States. The hummingbird hawk moth (Macroglossum stellatarum) is a species of moth found across North America, Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It is known for its ability to hover in midair while feeding on nectar from flowers, similar to hummingbirds. The hummingbird hawk moth has become increasingly common across parts of the southern and western United States in recent decades.
What is a hummingbird hawk moth?
The hummingbird hawk moth is a medium-sized moth with a wingspan of 1.6-1.8 inches (4-4.5 cm). As its name suggests, it resembles a hummingbird in flight. Some key features that distinguish it include:
- Fast-beating wings that allow it to hover and fly in all directions
- A long proboscis that can extend to reach nectar from flowers
- Antennae that end in a hooked shape
- Front wings that are narrow and elongated
- Hind wings that are small and rounded
- A thick, furry body covered in hair-like scales
- Brightly colored bands on the abdomen
The coloring is quite variable but commonly includes olive green, pink, brown, grey, and white markings. The furry body helps with temperature regulation, while the streamlined wings provide excellent agility and speed. When feeding, the moth can beat its wings up to 90 times per second. This allows it to fly in place like a hummingbird.
Native range and habitat
Hummingbird hawk moths are native to parts of Europe, Asia, and North Africa. Their natural range extends from Portugal and Morocco in the west to Japan in the east. Within this expansive region, they inhabit a diverse array of temperate habitats.
Preferred habitats include:
- Forest edges
- Meadows
- Fields
- Gardens
- Orchards
- Parks
- Scrublands
Wherever there are plenty of wildflowers, herbs, shrubs, and trees providing nectar, the moths can flourish. Adults feed on nectar from flowers during the day, while caterpillars feed on leaves from plants like bedstraw, honeysuckles, and willowherbs at night.
Range expansion to North America
Up until the 1990s, most records of hummingbird hawk moths in North America were rare vagrants or individual specimens believed to have hitched rides on ships or cargo. But in recent decades, evidence indicates established breeding populations across the southern and western United States.
Sightings have been reported in states including:
- California
- Texas
- Arizona
- New Mexico
- Louisiana
- Florida
It’s not entirely clear how the moth spread so rapidly across North America in a relatively short span. Some possible explanations include:
- Natural migration and expansion of its range from Mexico northward
- Increased transportation of ornamental plants containing eggs or larvae
- Accidental transport via vehicles traveling from Mexico
- Climate change expanding suitable habitat northwards
Whatever the exact mechanisms, the warming climate of the southern US seems to have provided ideal conditions for the species to flourish. Sightings have become regular each summer in hotter areas providing the moth’s preferred habitat.
Identification
Hummingbird hawk moths can be identified by the following key features:
- Approximate 1.5 inch wingspan
- Long, narrow front wings
- Small, rounded hind wings
- Rapid wingbeats while feeding
- Ability to hover in mid-air
- Brightly banded abdomen
- Long,extendable proboscis
- Active during daylight hours
In flight, there are very few other insects they could be confused with. The only ones likely to be mistaken are:
- Hummingbirds – Distinctive moth appearance and antennae on close inspection
- Sphinx moths – Larger and less colorful than hummingbird moths
- Bumblebee moth – All black coloration unlike the bands of hummingbird moths
So if you spot a rapidly fluttering moth that seems to hover in front of flowers during the day, it’s almost certainly going to be a hummingbird hawk moth. Just look for the characteristic long proboscis extending towards nectar.
Life cycle
Hummingbird hawk moths undergo complete metamorphosis with four life stages:
- Eggs – Very small white eggs laid singly on host plants by the female
- Caterpillar – Larval stage that hatches from eggs and feeds on leaves
- Pupa – Resting stage in a cocoon where metamorphosis occurs
- Adult moth – Emerges from pupa once transformation is complete
Key aspects of the life cycle are:
- Up to two generations per year
- Overwinters as pupa emerging as adults in spring
- Adults live 2 to 6 weeks feeding on nectar
- Females lay up to 200 eggs in lifetime
- Caterpillars feed for about 4 weeks before pupating
- Pupal stage lasts about 2 to 3 weeks before adults emerge
This life cycle allows the species to spread rapidly in suitable habitat. The short generational time lets populations grow quickly where conditions allow.
Plants for attracting hummingbird hawk moths
To attract hummingbird hawk moths to your garden, consider planting some of their favorite nectar sources:
| Common Name | Scientific Name |
|---|---|
| Butterfly bush | Buddleia davidii |
| Lilac | Syringa vulgaris |
| Red valerian | Centranthus ruber |
| Blazing star | Liatris spicata |
| Caryopteris | Caryopteris x clandonensis |
| Weigela | Weigela florida |
| Verbena | Verbena bonariensis |
| Petunia | Petunia x hybrida |
| Salvia | Salvia farinacea |
These plants provide the nectar that attracts adults. Place them in sunny spots and avoid pesticide use for best results. Flower shapes where moths can access nectar easily are best. Try also adding host plants for caterpillars like honeysuckle (Lonicera). With both larval and adult needs met, your garden can help sustain hummingbird hawk moth populations.
Status and conservation
The hummingbird hawk moth is not considered threatened or endangered in any part of its range. Due to its rapid spread across the southern United States, conservation efforts are not currently needed. Their ability to thrive in gardens and parks means suitable habitat is abundant.
However, you can help conserve hummingbird hawk moths by:
- Avoiding pesticide use which reduces larval host plants and nectar sources
- Planting native flowers providing nectar from spring to fall
- Leaving areas of overgrown vegetation where moth larvae can thrive
- Encouraging organic gardening practices to preserve populations
With climate change threatening many pollinator species, the resilient hummingbird hawk moth remains one beneficiary likely to expand in coming decades. This rapid little moth brings joy to many gardeners lucky enough to observe its aerial feats. Ensuring our gardens offer both food sources and undisturbed habitat can help provide for their needs.
Conclusion
In summary, the hummingbird hawk moth is well-established across much of the southern United States after spreading rapidly in recent decades. It can be identified by its distinctive hovering behavior and long proboscis used to drink nectar while in flight. These moths undergo full metamorphosis, thriving in warmer habitats that support both larval and adult needs. By planting the right flowers and adopting organic gardening practices, you can help provide resources needed by hummingbird hawk moth populations. The resilience of this species means it is likely to continue expanding its range under climate change scenarios.
