Hummingbird Clearwing Moth
While photographing hummingbirds in my flower garden, I’ve come across two smaller imposters. In fact, these moths are so fast, that it’s hard to get a good look as they feed on the bee balm in the garden. Several people over the years have asked me about their little, but strange-looking hummingbirds. Until I photographed them for this blog, I didn’t realize that we were actually hosting two different species of Clearwing. The Hummingbird Clearwing Moth has white legs and a rusty-red abdomen. The Snowberry Clearwing moth has black legs and more black on the thorax and abdomen. They are amazing animals and interesting to watch.
Hummingbird Clearwing Moth, white legs.
Snowberry Clearwing Moth, black legs and abdomen
Hummingbird Clearwing Moth
Notice how the flower can be seen right through the wings of the moth. There are a few veins of his wings showing, but there are no scales on the clear parts which make them look transparent.
Snowberry Clearwing Moth
As I am just dabbling in areas other than birds, I welcome your comments and corrections! Keep your eyes peeled for these fascinating creatures!
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USA: flowers for hummingbirds and moths | Dear Kitty. Some blogMarsha Deane
I live in Coastal NorthCarolia near Morehead City on the Bouge Banks. I have been so pleasantly surprised to watch a Western tanager com to my bird feeder . Had to search thourghly to be sure thru all my books But the yellow and white wing bars are a sure proof of its type I know they usuallt are nit in this area ,She is feeding on niger seed safflower sunflower and some fruit .bits
She is very calm and feeds comfortably with the other birds . She has been here a bout 10 days I hope she stays .I took photos on my phone camera . and compared her to your photos. it is a Western Tanager for sure . So pleased to see her .
Lauren Shaffer
How exciting! I hope you shared this with your local Audubon group or on eBird! Glad the post on the Western Tanager helped with your ID!