Fireweed Hawk Moth

This pair of fireweed hawk moths was seen mating along South Mitkof Highway. These large, eye-catching moths feed on fireweed nectar and are important pollinators during summer months. These moths can be confused for hummingbirds at first because of their size and how they hover near blossoms. Their spotted green or black larvae are called hornworms and can grow as large as eight centimeters.