Home Animals A-Z
Animals A-Z >  Hummingbird Hawk-moth
Hummingbird Hawk-moth

The hummingbird hawk-moth, Macroglossum stellatarum, flutters with remarkable agility, resembling a tiny hummingbird. Its rapid wing beats and hovering prowess allow it to sip nectar mid-air, playing a crucial role in pollination. This moth’s ability to migrate long distances adds to its fascinating ecological presence.

Brown, Orange
Color
Characteristics
Macroglossum stellatarum, commonly known as the hummingbird hawk-moth, is a moth known for its impressive hovering capability similar to a hummingbird. It has a wingspan of 40–45 mm, with a distinctive orange-brown coloration on the hindwings. It feeds on nectar, primarily from flowers, using its long proboscis.
Distribution Range of the Hummingbird Hawk-moth
Macroglossum stellatarum, commonly known as the Hummingbird Hawk-moth, is native to the Palearctic region. This includes areas across Europe, North Africa, and Asia, extending from Portugal in the west to Japan in the east. It is widely distributed across the Mediterranean and temperate regions.
Hummingbird Hawk-moth's Habitat
Environmental Conditions
The Hummingbird Hawk-moth typically inhabits warm, open environments such as gardens, meadows, and heathlands. It prefers areas with abundant flowering plants, as it feeds on nectar using its long proboscis. The moth is also found in urban areas and can often be seen in daylight, which is unusual for moths.
Ecological Niche
Macroglossum stellatarum occupies the niche of a diurnal pollinator. It is highly adapted to feed on tubular flowers, exhibiting rapid and precise hovering flight similar to that of a hummingbird. This adaptation allows it to access nectar while pollinating various plant species, contributing to the ecosystem's biodiversity and plant reproduction.