Sphingidae

69.010 Humming-bird Hawk-moth Macroglossum stellatarum (Linnaeus, 1758)

Immigrant / Suspected resident

Similar species:

Forewing: 20 to 24mm

Habitats: Anywhere, on the coast or inland. It is often seen flying along cliffs or in quarries and commonly nectaring at garden flowers or flowers in woodland clearings.

Habits: The moth usually flies in the day, even when dull or raining. It sometimes flies at night and has been caught in light traps. It occasionally hibernates and is seen on warm days in the winter.

Foodplant: The larva feeds on Lady's Bedstraw, Hedge Bedstraw and Wild Madder. Egg laying has been recorded on Red Valerian. It pupates low in the vegetation or in leaf litter.