Eurasian Hummingbird Hawkmoth
Common NameEurasian Hummingbird Hawkmoth
Scientific NameMacroglossum stellatarum
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilyMacroglossinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorsgrey-brown, orange, black, white
HabitatGardens, meadows, woodlands, parks, coastal areas
Geographic RangeEurope, Asia, and North Africa
Host Plantsbedstraws (Galium spp.), madder (Rubia spp.)
Flight PeriodMarch to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylehovering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the host plant. Larvae are green with two yellow stripes along the sides and a blue horn at the rear. Pupation occurs in a loose cocoon underground or in leaf litter.
Identification TipsOften mistaken for a hummingbird due to its hovering flight and long proboscis. Key features include its orange hindwings, black and white 'tail' tufts, and rapid wing beats.
Description
This moth has a robust, furry grey-brown body with a distinctive fan-like black and white tail tuft. Its forewings are grey-brown with dark wavy lines, while the hindwings are a striking orange, visible in flight.
