wasp? massive wing span - Ask Extension
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 pho...
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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