Hummingbird Hawk-moth - D. Emley 2021
Sesiidae : Sesiinae
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Sesia apiformis
Photo © Dudley Martin,  WorcsWT Knapp Papermill, 06.06.26

Sesia apiformis Sesia apiformis Sesia apiformis Sesia apiformis Sesia apiformis Sesia apiformis

Similar West Midlands Species
Lunar Hornet Moth
Sesia bembeciformis
Sesia bembeciformis
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Hornet Moth
Sesia apiformis

(Clerck, 1759) 370 / 52.002

Scarce to uncommon resident, but widespread in the lower Severn Valley.

Found in parks, hedgerows, amenity plantings and fens.

The larvae found in the living wood of a variety poplar species where they may spend two or three years. They prefer older trees.

Can be found resting on tree trunks, often as a mating pair. Attracted to the HOR pheromone lure, usually in the morning.

Note Distinguished from Lunar Hornet Moth by bright yellow head and shoulder patches and black collar.

Verification Grade Comment: Ideally take a photo away from Worcestershire.

Recorded in 33 (24%) of 140 10k Squares.
First Recorded in 1853.
Last Recorded in 2024.
(Data up to end 2024)
Additional Stats

Forewing: 17-21mm
Flight: Mid June - July (August)
Foodplant:   Black-poplar, Aspen, other poplars
Red List: Least Concern (LC)
GB Status: Common
Former Status: Nationally Scarce B
Verification Grade:  Adult: 2
< Palm Moth | Lunar Hornet Moth >
List Species Records   [Show All Latest]
Latest 5 Records (data up to end 2024)
Date#VC10k Area
17/07/20241VC37 - WorcestershireSP06
01/07/20241VC37 - WorcestershireSO77
22/06/20241VC36 - HerefordshireSO53
13/06/20241VC37 - WorcestershireSO85
13/06/20241VC37 - WorcestershireSO85

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