The nickname hummingbird moth applies to several different species of sphinx moths. Sphinx moths, also known as hawk moths, are from the family Sphingidae. These are medium to large-sized moths with a large body and characteristic narrow, elongate front wings. The wings have the shape of a wide, flat triangle ending in an acute angle at the farthest point. There are approximately 125 different species of sphinx moths in the United States and Canada.
Sphinx moths are strong fliers with a very rapid wingbeat.
They are capable of hovering in mid air for extended periods and flying just in front of flowers as they sip nectar through their extended proboscis. A tiny amount of nectar is withdrawn during a brief visit to each flower. When not in use the proboscis is coiled against the underside of the head. The tightly spiraled proboscis is extended and held stiff by internal fluid pressure as the moth reaches for the nectar supply at the base of flowers. When the moth is done feeding, muscles coil the proboscis back into resting position.