Photo By Bergadder , used under CC0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Hummingbird hawk-moth
Macroglossum stellatarum
A species of Macroglossum, Also known as Eurasian hummingbird hawkmoth
Named after its resemblance to hummingbirds, the hummingbird hawk-moth feeds on nectar-rich, tube-shaped flowers. This large, fast, buzzing insect is known for its ability to learn colors; its food preferences are based on visual recognition. It is a migratory species that starts its journey in Africa. The hummingbird hawk-moth is considered a lucky omen.
General Info About Hummingbird hawk-moth
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Attributes of Hummingbird hawk-moth
Colors
Black
Gray
Orange
Habitat
Hummingbird hawk-moths can be easily seen in gardens, parks, meadows, bushes, and woodland edge, where the preferred food plants grow (honeysuckle, red valerian and many others). Their larvae usually feed on bedstraws or madders (Rubia) but have been recorded on other Rubiaceae and Centranthus, Stellaria, and Epilobium. Adults are particularly fond of nectar-rich flowers with a long and narrow calyx, since they can then take advantage of their long proboscis and avoid competition from other insects. Flowers with longer tubes typically present the feeding animal a higher nectar reward. Proboscis length is thought to have been evolutionarily impacted by the length of flower feeding tubes. Examples of such plants include Centranthus, Jasminum, Buddleia, Nicotiana, Primula, Viola, Syringa, Verbena, Echium, Phlox, and Stachys. They are reported to trap-line, that is, to return to the same flower beds at about the same time each day.
Adult Food Sources
Nectar from flowers such as jasmine, honeysuckle, and buddleia.
Larva Food Source
Bedstraw (galium species), lady's bedstraw (galium verum), madder (rubia species), various species within rubiaceae family.
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Hummingbird hawk-moth is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Hummingbird hawk-moth is often found near the corolla, where its fluffy hairs easily pick up pollen, assisting in the pollination of the plant.
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Hummingbird hawk-moth feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Hummingbird hawk-moth
Common
Distribution Area of Hummingbird hawk-moth
Europe, North Africa, Asia, India, Indochina
Life Cycle of Hummingbird hawk-moth
Egg The beginning life stage of hummingbird hawk-moth is as tiny, spherical eggs, usually laid on the underside of host plants. Their color often matches the foliage to provide camouflage from predators.
Larva Upon hatching, the larva of hummingbird hawk-moth emerges as a caterpillar, focusing on feeding and growth. It exhibits multiple molts, increasing in size, and may change patterns and coloration to deter predators.
Pupal After reaching sufficient size, hummingbird hawk-moth enters the pupal stage, forming a chrysalis. During this time, it undergoes significant transformation, reorganizing its internal structures for the adult phase.
Adult Emerging from the chrysalis, the adult hummingbird hawk-moth develops prominent wings and reproductive organs. Its body is hardened and displays vibrant colors for mating. At this stage, it is highly mobile and seeks to reproduce.
Predators of Hummingbird hawk-moth Larvae
Rodents, birds, insects, spiders
Predators of Adult Hummingbird hawk-moth
Birds, bats
Interesting Facts About Hummingbird hawk-moth
Hummingbird hawk-moth has an exceptional hovering ability and can move with the precision of a helicopter, including flying backwards.
Scientific Classification of Hummingbird hawk-moth
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Youth Habitat of Hummingbird hawk-moth
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
Adult Habitat of Hummingbird hawk-moth
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Gardens, Parks
How Can You Attract Hummingbird hawk-moth
For adult hummingbird hawk-moth, using floral lures or artificial feeders filled with a mixture of water and sugar can attract them as they feed on nectar.
Habitat Preferences of Hummingbird hawk-moth Through Different Life Stages
The egg stage of hummingbird hawk-moth can often be found on the underside of leaves from host plants that they favor, such as Galium, and plants from the Rubiaceae family. Caterpillars of hummingbird hawk-moth are likely to be spotted on suitable foliage where they feed and grow until pupation. Searching for the caterpillar involves inspecting the leaves of these host plants. To find the pupae of hummingbird hawk-moth, one might need to look at the ground among leaf litter or in the soil near the host plants, as they tend to pupate in loose soil or detritus. Adult hummingbird hawk-moth are typically found in a variety of habitats including gardens, meadows and open woodland, often hovering over flowers from which they feed on nectar.
When is the Best Time to Observe Hummingbird hawk-moth
The best time to find adult hummingbird hawk-moth is during dusk or dawn when they are most active and seeking food. For finding larvae, daytime is more suitable as they are less active.
What is the Best Weather to Observe Hummingbird hawk-moth
Warm, calm, and dry weather is most suitable for finding hummingbird hawk-moth as they prefer conditions that are not too windy or rainy for flight and feeding.
How and Where Can You Find Hummingbird hawk-moth at Different Life Stages
Egg Hummingbird hawk-moth eggs are typically laid on the underside of host plant leaves. To find them, inspect these areas closely, using a magnifying glass if necessary.
Larva Larval hummingbird hawk-moth can be found on or near their host plants, where they feed. Look for signs of feeding, such as bite marks on leaves, and check the surrounding vegetation.
Pupal Hummingbird hawk-moth pupae are often hidden in the soil or leaf litter near the host plants. Search gently through these materials to locate the camouflaged pupae without causing damage.
Adult Adult hummingbird hawk-moth are attracted to flowers and are highly active at dusk and dawn. Visiting gardens or areas with abundant flowering plants during these times can increase the chances of spotting them.
Are Hummingbird hawk-moth harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Hummingbird hawk-moth
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Garden and Landscape Pest
Larvae of hummingbird hawk-moth can cause mild to severe damage by chewing plant tissues. Infestation on leaves of tomatoes and related crops can lead to defoliation, weakened plants, and substantially reduced yields. Large populations may lead to significant garden and landscape damage.
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Prefer Plant Type
Asteraceae, Tubular Flowers
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Shape
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar, Accidental Contamination While Feeding On Nectar
Hummingbird hawk-moth is a fascinating pollinator, known for hovering in front of flowers while sipping nectar. It inadvertently picks up and transfers pollen as it feeds, contributing to plant reproduction. Attracted by specific colors and shapes, this species shows a preference for certain flowers, particularly in the Asteraceae family and those with tubular shapes.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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