The Sphingidae are a family of Moths commonly called sphinx moths, also colloquially known as hawk moths, with many of their caterpillars known as "hornworms".

Some hawk moths hover in midair while they feed on nectar from flowers, so are sometimes mistaken for hummingbirds.

This hovering capability is only known to have evolved four times in nectar feeders: in hummingbirds, certain bats, hoverflies, and these Sphingidae.

They can be observed at night from February until November.