The broad-bordered bee hawk-moth is a large, day-flying moth of open woodlands and clearings. It is a relatively scarce species, with a restricted distribution, but has strongholds in East Anglia and Lincolnshire. The adult is on the wing from May to July, and feeds while flying on flowers like wild honeysuckle and snowberry. So-named for its resemblance to a bumblebee, it is far more agile and much larger. The caterpillars appear from June to August and overwinter as pupae below the ground.
How to identify
The broad-bordered bee hawk-moth does like a bit like a bumblebee. It has reddish-brown bands across its golden abdomen that can change to black as the hairs wear off. It also has reddish bands on its translucent forewings and long, clubbed antennae.
Did you know?
The broad-bordered bee hawk-moth looks similar to the narrow-bordered bee hawk-moth, but, as its name suggests, has a broader dark band on the edge of its forewings.
How people can help
The Wildlife Trusts manage many woodland nature reserves sympathetically for the benefit of all kinds of butterflies. A mix of coppicing, scrub-cutting, ride maintenance and non-intervention all help woodland wildlife to thrive. You can help too: volunteer for your local Wildlife Trust and you could be involved in everything from traditional forest crafts to surveying for butterflies.
