Snowberry Clearwing Moth or Humminbird?

Snowberry Clearwing Moth or Hummingbird?

The Snowberry Clearwing Moth (Hemaris diffinis) resembles a small hummingbird, in several ways. Like a hummingbird it is diurnal, and it takes flower nectar while hovering. The Clearwing Moth's wing scales fall off shortly after emerging from the cocoon. The wingbeat is not as fast as the hummingbird's but the overall transparency of the wing makes it nearly invisible.
This moth may derive protection from its resemblance to bees.
The yellow and black colors on the abdomen might be a "warning pattern" on bees that sting.
Having been stung by a horde of angry yellow and black bees, I'm wary of anything yellow and black that flies !

.

Jorg's Hummingbird-Hawkmoth Page Index Hummingbirds.net

Visit my Guestbook