view of a Hummingbird Hawkmoth nectaring on Valerian

Hummingbird Hawkmoth. Photo: Andrew Martin

Andrew took this photograph of a Hummingbird Hawkmoth at Cheyne Wears on 12/07/17.

This species always causes excitement when spotted hovering like a tiny hummingbird whilst nectaring on tubular flowers such as Buddleia, Phlox, Red Valerian, Lilac and Petunias.

Mostly immigrants, arriving  April-December, but more usually seen August -September, in the South west they have been known to overwinter during mild winters for the last 30 years.

Interesting to note that they are considered a messenger of good tidings in Italy and Malta, and on D-Day 1944 a small swarm were reported flying over the English Channel from France towards England.

 

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