Hummingbird Hawk-Moths Delight UK Gardeners with Bumper Year Sightings

Wildlife watchers across the United Kingdom are reporting an unusual number of hummingbird hawk-moth sightings, sparking excitement among enthusiasts. These fast-flying insects, known for their resemblance to hummingbirds, migrate to the UK from continental Europe and North Africa.

“

Wow!

Recent warm weather and strong winds are believed to have facilitated a larger-than-usual influx of these moths. "We've had a big increase in sightings and inquiries about the hummingbird hawk-moth sent to us this year," said Richard Austin, a recording schemes officer at Butterfly Conservation. "We expect it is going to be a great summer for them."

“

This made my day.

While it's too early to compare numbers with previous years, experts are optimistic about the season. The moths have been spotted in various parts of the UK, from the south to Scotland. Their presence is a welcome sight for many, with some observers describing the experience as "amazing" and "just so different to everything else you normally see."

“

We’ve had a big increase in sightings and inquiries about the hummingbird hawk-moth sent to us this year. We expect it is going to be a great summer for them.

There's also speculation that milder winters, potentially linked to global warming, could allow hummingbird hawk-moths to establish a more permanent presence in the UK, further delighting nature observers.

“

It was just so different to everything else you normally see.