This small-eyed sphinx moth recently emerged from the pupa stage! After emerging from the cocoon, moths crawl around to allow their wings to fully dry out before taking flight. | Massachusetts Division of Fisheries & Wildlife

Often found hovering above rabbitbrush, the White-lined Sphinx moth (Hyles lineata) is an important pollinator for the plants at Grand Canyon. The Sphinx moth is diurnal, meaning it's active during the day. They move like hummingbirds, hovering over plants with their fast beating wings—which can move as quickly as 70 flaps per second! This trick predators into believing it's a bird, allowing it to pollinate in peace. Take a Minute Out In It to sip some nectar with our colorful Canyon companion!

6.2K views · 43 reactions | The chonky privet hawk moth caterpillars (Sphinx ligustri) on my privet bush are just about to pupate. If these were tomato hornworms, they would have been parasitized by now. | Swarmstead Bees and Gardening | Facebook