hawkmotten

Hawkmoths, or hawk moths, belong to the family Sphingidae within the order Lepidoptera. They are known for a robust, spindle-shaped body, narrow wings, and rapid, sustained flight. Many species can hover like hummingbirds and feed on nectar with a long, curved proboscis. Wingspans typically range from about 40 to over 100 millimeters, depending on the species.

Distribution and ecology: Sphingidae comprises roughly 1,400 species found worldwide, with greatest diversity in tropical regions. Most hawkmoths are nocturnal, though some are crepuscular or diurnal. Adults usually feed on nectar and can act as important pollinators for night-blooming flowers; several plants have coevolved traits to accommodate long-tongued hawkmoths, such as Darwin’s orchid.

Larvae and life cycle: Larvae are commonly called hornworms due to a horn-like tail. They feed on a wide range of host plants, including crops such as tobacco and tomato in some genera. Some species are agricultural pests, while others feed on wild species. Pupation occurs in the soil, after which the adult emerges. Most adults feed little or not at all, relying on energy stored during the larval stage.

Notable species: Privet hawk-moth (Sphinx ligustri), death's-head hawk-moth (Acherontia atropos), convolvulus hawk-moth (Agrius convolvuli), and tobacco hornworm (Manduca sexta) are among the best known. Hawkmoths have been studied for their flight performance, nectar-feeding behavior, and their important role as pollinators.