Yes, hummingbird moths do live in the UK. Hummingbird moths are medium-sized moths that are known for their ability to hover in midair while feeding on nectar from flowers, similar to hummingbirds. There are several different species found in the UK.
Hummingbird moth species found in the UK
The most common hummingbird moth species found in the UK are:
- Hummingbird hawk-moth (Macroglossum stellatarum) – This is the most widespread and commonly seen hummingbird moth in the UK. It is found throughout England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland.
- Elephant hawk-moth (Deilephila elpenor) – Less common than the hummingbird hawk-moth but can be found across much of England and Wales and parts of southern Scotland.
- Narrow-bordered bee hawk-moth (Hemaris tityus) – Restricted to southern England and Wales.
- Broad-bordered bee hawk-moth (Hemaris fuciformis) – Very rare in the UK and confined mainly to southern England.
- Bedstraw hawk-moth (Hyles gallii) – A rare migrant from southern Europe that occasionally reaches the UK.
- Silver-striped hawk-moth (Hippotion celerio) – An extremely rare vagrant to the UK.
The most widespread and commonly encountered is the hummingbird hawk-moth. The elephant hawk-moth is also reasonably common and widespread. The other species are more restricted in distribution and less likely to be seen.
Appearance and identification
Hummingbird moths can be identified by their medium size, narrow wings, long proboscis (tongue) for reaching nectar, and ability to hover and fly in place much like hummingbirds. Here are some more details on identifying features:
- Long, narrow wings – The wings are long and narrow compared to other moth species. This aids their flight agility.
- Swift, darting flight – They have a rapid and darting flight style, capable of sudden bursts of speed and instantly changing direction.
- Hovering ability – They can beat their wings quickly enabling them to hover in front of flowers while feeding on nectar.
- Long proboscis – Their tube-like proboscis (tongue) is exceptionally long, allowing them to reach deep into tubular flowers when feeding.
- Vibrant, contrasting colors – Many species have brightly colored hindwings visible during flight. The hummingbird hawk-moth has pink-flushed underwings.
- Hairy bodies – Their thorax and abdomen are covered in fuzzy hairs which aid thermoregulation.
When in flight, the rapid wingbeats, long proboscis and ability to hover distinguish them from other moths and similar-sized insects.
Habits and habitat
Hummingbird moths require a habitat that provides suitable flowers that give a good nectar supply. Their primary habitats in the UK include:
- Gardens – Gardens that have a good range of nectar-rich flowers are attractive to hummingbird moths.
- Woodland clearings and edges – They will feed along woodland clearings, rides and edges where flowering plants grow.
- Hedgerows – Hedgerows with a diversity of wildflowers provide excellent habitat.
- Grasslands – Flower-rich meadows, pastures and downlands hold populations.
- Coastal habitats – Coastal clifftops and scrub areas provide habitat.
- Parks and churchyards – Areas with ornamental and native flowers are used.
Adult hummingbird moths do not feed on leaves or other plant material. They rely solely on nectar as their food source. They use their long proboscis to drink nectar while hovering in front of flowers. Favorites include honeysuckle, red valerian, foxglove, rock rose, thistles, lavender, Buddleja, petunias, and many others with tubular or spur shaped flowers.
Lifecycle and reproduction
Hummingbird moths have a full-winged moth lifecycle with egg, caterpillar, pupa and adult stages. The lifecycle takes around 1-2 months to complete depending on species and weather conditions.
- Eggs – Adult females lay eggs singly on the underside of host plant leaves. The tiny eggs are round and green/yellow.
- Caterpillars – The emerged caterpillars are large, smooth and plump. They grow up to 2 inches long and come in brown, green or yellow colors with horn-like tails. They feed on leaves of bedstraw, honeysuckle, and other plants.
- Pupae – To pupate, the caterpillar spins a silken cocoon attached to a stem or leaf where it transforms into the pupal stage.
- Adults – The adult moths emerge in early summer after overwintering as pupae. Adults live for a few weeks up to a couple months.
Most species produce one or two generations per year. The adults do not feed but live solely to mate and lay eggs to continue the breeding cycle.
Migration and hibernation
Most hummingbird moth species found in the UK do not actually migrate or hibernate here. Instead, populations consist of migrant adults that arrive in spring and summer from southern Europe and North Africa. These moths breed in the UK over summer and the next generation then returns south in autumn to overwinter. There is no evidence they hibernate in the UK. A few rare individuals may overwinter especially in southern coastal regions.
When and where to see them
The best times to spot hummingbird moths in the UK are:
- Late May to early September – Peak flight season for adults.
- On sunny, warm days – More active in warm weather.
- From midday to early evening – Most active during daylight hours.
- In flower-rich habitats – Gardens, meadows, woodland edges.
- On nectar-rich large flowers – Honeysuckle, buddleja, thistles, petunias.
Southern England and along the coast tends to be better for seeing them as they spread northwards. However, they can turn up anywhere suitable flowers can be found.
Threats and conservation
Hummingbird moth populations are generally stable and they are not considered threatened in the UK. Potential threats can include:
- Habitat loss – Loss of flower-rich habitats like meadows reduces feeding and breeding areas.
- Pesticide use – Can reduce larval host plants and nectar sources.
- Climate change – Impacts migration and phenology patterns between Europe and UK.
Conservation priorities include creating more wildlife friendly gardens, reducing pesticide use, and protecting habitats like meadows and hedgerows. Raising public awareness and expanding citizen science recording schemes also helps conserve populations.
Fun facts
- Hummingbird moths beat their wings up to 90 times per second, making the familiar humming sound.
- They can fly at speeds over 12 mph.
- Some species migrate long distances – the red-belted clearwing crosses the English Channel on its migration.
- Their long tongues can be more than 1.5 times their body length.
- Hummingbird moths don’t make any honey and don’t sting.
- They are found across Europe, Asia and Africa with around 150 species globally.
Conclusion
In summary, several species of hummingbird moth live and breed in the UK, especially in England and Wales. The most common is the hummingbird hawk-moth. They inhabit gardens and flower-rich grassland habitats. While remarkable for their hummingbird-like feeding behaviors, they face some threats from habitat loss and climate change. But promoting wildlife gardening and conservation can help provide the nectar-rich flowers they depend on.