Knowledgebase

wasp? massive wing span #841959

Asked July 21, 2023, 9:13 PM EDT

We have a flying insect in our yard that is possibly a wasp, but has the wing span of a hummingbird. As it flies by plants, the petals move. These photos do not do it justice as to it's size. (sorry, horrible photos) I have video and tried to take a few screen shots from the video. Any help appreciated. (photos near a large hydrangea for reference)

Hennepin County Minnesota

Expert Response

Hi Jeanne,

I'm pretty sure it's a large moth. Possibly a sphinx moth.

https://mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/sphinx-moths-hawk-moths

Here are some pictures to help you figure this out;

https://www.istockphoto.com/photos/large-moths

Sally Granath

St. Louis County MG

An Ask Extension Expert Replied July 27, 2023, 2:18 PM EDT

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