Hawk-moths of the World
Sphingidae are a family of moths which are commonly known as Hawk-moths. They have a worldwide distribution, with the vast majority of species occurring in tropical regions of the world. There are approximately 1500 recognised species. Most adults have a stream-like aerodynamic structure and are known for their speed and agility in the air. Many are capable of long, sustained flight and some appear as migrants in most years having travelled great distances from other regions of the world.
Some species are often mistaken for hummingbirds since they have the capability of being able to hover in the air above flowers sipping nectar with their long proboscis. Flowers are the main food source for these enigmatic creatures. The majority of species are crepuscular and nocturnal however a small number are diurnal and fly in the daytime usually in sunshine.
I have always been fascinated with moths since my early childhood. I have been fortunate to see and photograph many species over the years. Below are some examples from my photographic library, which covers a wide diversity of species.
