Whats this critter that looks somewhat like a hummingbird but isn a hummingbird ?
This is a Hummingbird Clearwing Moth. It belongs to the family of sphinx moths, which are daylight fliers. Like most moths and butterflies, the hummingbird clearwing moth sips nectar through a coiled tube (proboscis) which extends from its mouth. This moth has a wingspan of 1-1/2″ to 2-1/2″ and feeds in mid-air while beating its wings at a rapid rate (just like a hummingbird). A regular visitor to butterfly bushes, hummingbird clearwing moths also like the nectar of beebalm, phlox, lilac, thistle, and more.
