Just a quick post – it’s too nice outside to be inside!
This little beauty has been buzzing around our garden. He (or she – who can tell?) seems to like the native phlox that we have in the yard and also the bee balm.
It’s quite interesting to watch, how it hovers over the flowers like a hummingbird. Probably where it got its common name! My aunt had one in her yard and was certain it was the smallest hummer she had ever seen.
For those of you who are wondering, the Latin name is Hemaris thysbe (Fabricius, 1775). The insect has a range from Alaska and the Northwest Territories south through British Columbia to Oregon; east through the Great Plains and the Great Lakes area to Maine and Newfoundland; south to Florida and Texas. It’s really quite a beautiful thing to see.
Until next time!
Lower Olentangy Urban Arboretum 