Nationally scarce (Nb) along woodland margins and on heathland in England and Wales. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight, has recovered from a low level in the 1970s; the species is reported occasionally, with the main population occurring in the New Forest. Wingspan 46-52 mm. The most likely confusion species is Narrow-bordered Bee Hawk H. tityus, which see for differences. Larva feeds on Honeysuckle, over-wintering as a pupa.
The abundance in each month is indicated as follows:
No records
Very occasional
Irregular
Uncommon
Off-peak, but not unusual
Off-peak, but not unusual
Main flight time