sespiidae

Sesiidae is a family of moths commonly known as clearwing moths or hummingbird moths. These moths are distinctive for their wing patterns, which often resemble those of wasps or bees. Many species have transparent or semi-transparent wings, a characteristic that gives them their common name.

The larvae of Sesiidae are typically wood-borers or stem-borers, feeding on a variety of woody plants, including trees, shrubs, and vines. This boring behavior can sometimes make them significant pests in agricultural and horticultural settings. For example, some species are known to damage fruit trees.

Adult Sesiidae moths are generally diurnal, meaning they are active during the day, unlike many other moth species. Their resemblance to stinging insects is a form of mimicry, which helps protect them from predators. They often hover in front of flowers to feed on nectar, much like hummingbirds, leading to another of their common names.

The family Sesiidae is found worldwide, with the greatest diversity in tropical and subtropical regions. Their life cycles typically involve a larval stage, followed by a pupal stage, and finally the adult moth. The adults are primarily focused on reproduction, with females laying eggs on or near host plants.