hummingbird hawkmoth in mid October

[aeshna5]

Originally Posted by hawkmoon1704

The first Hawkmoth I saw was in Menorca a coupla years ago and didn't have a clue what it was at the time. Then to hear they can be found here in the UK was great. But I wonde how far north they can be found and what kind of plants they will feed at. I live in Northant's by the way, has anyone seen a hawkmoth up this far?

Like many migratory insects they can turn up almost anywhere, but are generally more common in the south.

The larvae feed on Lady's Bedstraw + related plants. Red Valerian is a very popular nectar plant for adults- virtually everyone I've seen in my garden (+ I've been lucky to see them most years) have been at this plant, except for one back in April that was feeding at Escallonia. I did see one at Petunias in a pub hanging basket once- great sight whilst having a pint!

[kernowsue]

Thanks for all the replies. I live in Cornwall. We usually see them from mid summer onwards, but this year not until September. They love the verbena bonariensis ( tall purple verbena). Would really recommend this plant for attracting all insect wildlife. Even good for a small garden. Because of it we have been a little haven of insect activity with numerous bees and butterflies and moths. They must be really heavy nectar producers and they have flowered in our garden from May and are still going strong.

[aeshna5]

Originally Posted by kernowsue

Thanks for all the replies. I live in Cornwall. We usually see them from mid summer onwards, but this year not until September. They love the verbena bonariensis ( tall purple verbena). Would really recommend this plant for attracting all insect wildlife. Even good for a small garden. Because of it we have been a little haven of insect activity with numerous bees and butterflies and moths. They must be really heavy nectar producers and they have flowered in our garden from May and are still going strong.

I thoroughly agree that Verbena bonariensis is an excellent insect attractant- I get many bees + butterflies on it amongst others, but I haven't noticed the Hummingbird Hawkmoth on it in my garden, but it doesn't surprise that they use it as it's such a super nectar plant.