description Snowberry clearwing Overview
The snowberry clearwing, Hemaris diffinis, is a day-flying hawk moth native to North America. Transparent areas on its wings, a compact yellow-and-black body, and hovering flight give it a strong resemblance to a bumblebee, but it feeds through the long proboscis characteristic of sphingid moths. Its caterpillars use snowberry, honeysuckle, and other members of the honeysuckle family as host plants, while adults visit flowers for nectar.
help Snowberry clearwing FAQ
How can I tell a snowberry clearwing from a bumblebee?
The snowberry clearwing, Hemaris diffinis, has transparent wing panels and a yellow-and-black body that resembles a bumblebee. Its hovering flight and long moth-like proboscis are useful clues when it is feeding.
Is the snowberry clearwing a moth or a bee?
It is a day-flying hawk moth, not a bee. The species belongs to the family Sphingidae and uses bee-like coloring as a form of visual mimicry.
Where is the snowberry clearwing found?
Hemaris diffinis is native to North America and can occur in open habitats, gardens, meadows, and woodland edges. Adults visit flowers while hovering, much like a hummingbird or large bee.
What does the snowberry clearwing eat?
Adults feed on flower nectar through a long proboscis. The caterpillars feed on plants such as snowberry and honeysuckle, which are associated with the species' common name.
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