It's A Hummer! A Bumble Bee? No! A SPHINX MOTH!
Sphinx moths have fooled a great many people, just as the first one we saw fooled us. Note in the photos on this web site the antennae and the long proboscis of the sphinx moth. They are somewhat similar to those of butterflies, but are really quite different in comparison. And one thing is certain -- sphinx moths definitely do not have long beaks like hummingbirds!
To learn more about what many people call "hummingbird imposters" and to view some outstanding photos of sphinx moths and clearwing moths, follow this link to the Missouri Conservationist web site.
Although our sphinx moths did not turn out to be baby hummingbirds, they are almost as amazing and every bit as much fun to observe. In my humble opinion, I think they're a bit clumsy looking. But then . . . don't you think that God has a grand sense of humor and that He created some very odd looking creatures just to entertain mankind? I certainly do!
Once again -- I am in awe at the beauty and wonder of God's handiwork in Nature. I am also thankful for each and every small creature He created to share with us on planet Earth. Should you get a chance to spend some long summer evenings in your garden, perhaps you too will spy some of the unusual night creatures that come to visit while the others are sound asleep.
Until next time, readers and friends -- keep those hummers a-humming and those "flying flowers" flying!
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