HUMMINGBIRD CLEARWING MOTH

Description:

Member of the Sphinx Moth family, I first noticed one in 2012- had pink thorax & light green abd. Exactly the same color as the petunia & leaves it was feeding on. Startled, I did a double take, as it was not a small hummingbird, and noticed the 'furry' body and 'beak' that was a probiscus on inspection. I was not able to take photos as it was quite elusive, appearing ~5pm. Last summer I saw this little fearless fellow at the various phlox i have in my garden. He attended them all day when it was sunny and didn't mind me.

Habitat:

Seem to be especially fond of colorful (perhaps scented) flowers on sunny days. It apparently is one of the few diurnal moths. They appear in WNY around mid July thru August when the flowers are in full bloom.