Dance of the Hummingbird Moth

by Rebecca Herranen

Title

Dance of the Hummingbird Moth

Artist

Rebecca Herranen

Medium

Photograph - Photography

Description

In this captivating photograph taken in New Mexico, a hummingbird moth is seen hovering over a vibrant thistle flower. The expansive, blurred landscape of New Mexico, known for its deserts, high plains, and majestic mountains, forms a serene backdrop, adding depth and context to this moment of natural beauty.

The focal point of the image is the hummingbird moth, specifically the White-lined Sphinx Moth (Hyles lineata). This moth is often mistaken for a hummingbird due to its swift, hovering flight and feeding behavior. Its wings are marked with brown and white stripes, accented by eye-catching pink patches, creating a striking contrast with the thistle flower.

The thistle, likely from the Cirsium or Carduus genus, is characterized by its spiny leaves and spherical, vivid pink flower head. This particular thistle flower is notably large, with a flower head that can reach up to four inches in diameter. The size of the flower enhances its visual appeal, making it a prominent feature in the photograph. These flowers are common in New Mexico’s sunny, open areas and are known to attract various pollinators, including the hummingbird moth.

The interaction between the moth and the flower highlights the delicate balance and interconnectedness of nature. This image captures the essence of New Mexico's natural landscape, where diverse flora and fauna coexist in harmony. The vibrant colors and detailed focus on the moth and flower, set against the blurred, vast scenery, make this photograph a captivating representation of the state's wild beauty. The large size of the thistle flower not only provides a striking visual element but also emphasizes the abundance and vitality of New Mexico’s flora.

Uploaded

July 25th, 2024

Colors

Embed

Share

Tags