The Whimsical Hummingbird Moth

The lilac’s bloom heralds the arrival of the hummingbird clearwing moths. I am fascinated with these whimsical looking creatures. Clear window-pane wings, fuzzy bodies, big eyes, antenna that mimic eyelashes, and curly probiscis, they remind me of little garden fairies.

Inevitably, I spend an inordinate amount of time photographing them, trying for the perfect shot. Their frenetic activity, flying among the honey bees with no apparent plan or pattern make them a challenging subject.

So, as long as the lilacs last we’ll enjoy the clearwings.