July 12, 2026

Not a baby Hummingbird, but a moth with the name of Hummingbird Clearwing (Hemaris thysbe), enjoying the nectar of many blooms of Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa), keeping itself (and me and my camera) busy, going from one flower to another, and back again.

Caterpillars of this moth look similar to the nasty Tomato Hornworm caterpillar (Manduca quinquemaculata). In order tell the difference, pay attention to what plants the caterpillar is on. The Tomato Hornworms will be on their host plants of, tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, potatoes, jimsonweed, horsenettle, and various wild nightshades. They are bright green caterpillars with eight V-shaped white stripes on their sides. Their tail has a unique dark blue or black horn.

The caterpillars of the Hummingbird Clearwing will be found on their host plants of honeysuckle, snowberry, cherry, plum, and hawthorn. Their coloring is yellowish-green with dark or black spots and usually don’t have the white stripes that the Tomato Hornworm has. Their tail normally is green with a black or orange tip. 

In both these species, variations will occur as the caterpillars mature.

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