Bug Identifier
Snowberry Clearwing
Community identification

Snowberry Clearwing

Hemaris diffinis

Order & Family
Lepidoptera, Sphingidae
Size
Wingspan of 3.8 to 5.0 cm (1.5 to 2.0 inches)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Gardens, open woods, meadows, and areas where host plants like honeysuckle, snowberry, and viburnum are found.

Diet & Feeding

Adults feed on nectar from flowers using a long proboscis. Caterpillars feed on the foliage of host plants such as honeysuckle, snowberry, and cherry.

Behavior Patterns

Diurnal (active during the day), often mistaken for a hummingbird or bumblebee due to its hovering flight and clear wings. It darts rapidly between flowers.

Risks & Benefits

Completely harmless to humans and acts as an effective pollinator for many garden and woodland flowers.