Which moth family contains hawk moths and sphinx moths?

Sphingidae is the moth family containing hawk moths and sphinx moths.

Sphingidae includes many strong-flying moths commonly called hawk moths, sphinx moths, or hummingbird moths. Adults generally have streamlined bodies and long, narrow wings, adaptations associated with rapid flight. Several species can hover in front of flowers while feeding with a long proboscis.

The family is found worldwide and contains more than 1,500 known species. Its caterpillars are often large and may carry a conspicuous horn at the rear, which explains the widespread term hornworm. Despite the name, a hornworm’s rear horn is not a true stinger.

Some sphingids are important pollinators, including species that visit flowers at dusk or during the night. The family name Sphingidae comes from the genus Sphinx, whose name refers to the raised posture adopted by some resting caterpillars. Hawk moths are moths, not butterflies, even when they fly by day.