Balsam Fir Sawfly vs Helicopter Metalmark

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute	Balsam Fir Sawfly	Helicopter Metalmark
Scientific Name	Neodiprion abietis	Chorinea octauius
Order	Hymenoptera	Lepidoptera
Family	Diprionidae	Riodinidae
Size	6-8 mm	35-45 mm wingspan
Habitat	Forests	Forests
Diet	Omnivores	Nectar Feeders
Regions	Eastern North America	South America
Conservation	Least Concern	Least Concern

Balsam Fir Sawfly

A boreal sawfly whose dark green larvae with lighter stripes feed on balsam fir needles. Periodic outbreaks can cause significant defoliation in fir forests.

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Did You Know?

Outbreaks of this species often follow those of the spruce budworm, as the already stressed trees are more susceptible to additional defoliation.

Helicopter Metalmark

Transparent forewings with red and black hindwing tails that twirl in flight. The spinning tails create a helicopter-like effect.

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Did You Know?

The elongated hindwing tails rotate during flight, resembling helicopter blades.