Alder Leaf Beetle vs Winter Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Alder Leaf Beetle | Winter Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Agelastica alni | Operophtera brumata |
| Order | Coleoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Chrysomelidae | Geometridae |
| Size | 6-7 mm | 25-30 mm wingspan (males) |
| Habitat | Ponds & Lakes | Woodlands |
| Diet | Herbivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Europe, Western Asia | Europe, Eastern North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Not Evaluated |
Alder Leaf Beetle
A metallic dark violet-blue beetle that feeds on alder trees. Heavy infestations can completely defoliate alder trees along waterways.
Did You Know?
After being absent from Britain for decades, it dramatically recolonised southern England in the early 2000s.
Winter Moth
A cold-hardy moth whose tiny green inchworm caterpillars defoliate fruit and shade trees in early spring. Females are virtually wingless and crawl up tree trunks to lay eggs.
Did You Know?
Sticky bands wrapped around tree trunks in autumn can trap the wingless females and prevent egg-laying.