Fritz's Hummingbird Hawkmoth
Common NameFritz's Hummingbird Hawkmoth
Scientific NameMacroglossum fritzbenjii
FamilySphingidae
SubfamilyMacroglossinae
Wingspan (mm)55
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, tan
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, gardens, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeSoutheast Asia (e.g., Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines)
Host PlantsRubiaceae (e.g., Uncaria, Morinda, Psychotria)
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical climates, active at dusk and night, sometimes diurnal
Flight Stylehovering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are typically green or brown with a caudal horn, feeding on foliage before pupating in soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its mottled brown forewings with a pale oblique line, robust body, and brush-like tail tuft. Its hovering flight while feeding on nectar is also a key behavioral identifier.
Description
This is a medium-sized hawkmoth with a robust, brown body and mottled brown forewings featuring darker bands and a pale oblique line. It has prominent antennae and a distinctive brush-like tail tuft.
