“My, my, who are you?” was my initial reaction to seeing my first Hummingbird Moth (Hemaris diffinis). I had read about it, but as my frequent insect-watching forays had not previously turned one up, this sighting was unexpected.
Also known as a Clearwing Moth, this creature often hovers as it collects nectar from a flower. It is also unusual for a moth in that it is active during the daytime. The adults are mainly on the wing in May, so now is the time to look for them. I show three pictures, below.
I have only seen this moth once before. A few years ago on Dove Hill in Castlegar. Neat sighting!
I worked in a tree nursery in Grand Forks, and we saw them fairly often. I now live in the Mojave Desert and have seen them down here as well. Nice pictures!
I lived in Fort McMurray for 25 years and saw them their frequently.
David, Janna, Rita, taken together, your comments seem to support the claim that this moth prefers open habitates. It is less likely to be seen in forested regions such as the one in which I live.
Spectacular photos, yet again Alistair!
Hummingbird moths also enjoy foraging on lilac flowers, I have noticed.