Apollo Butterfly vs Oak Processionary Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Apollo Butterfly Oak Processionary Moth
Scientific Name Parnassius apollo Thaumetopoea processionea
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Papilionidae Notodontidae
Size 62-86 mm wingspan 25-35 mm wingspan
Habitat Mountains Woodlands
Diet Omnivores Herbivores
Regions Mountain ranges of Europe and central Asia Europe
Conservation Vulnerable Least Concern

Apollo Butterfly

A large white butterfly with translucent wings bearing red and black eyespots, found on mountain slopes. It is one of Europe's most iconic and threatened montane species.

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Did You Know?

After mating, the male deposits a waxy plug called a sphragis on the female to prevent rival matings.

Oak Processionary Moth

A moth whose caterpillars march nose-to-tail in long processions along tree branches.

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Did You Know?

Its caterpillar hairs cause severe allergic reactions and rashes in humans.