Banks Peninsula Tree Weta vs Owl Butterfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Banks Peninsula Tree Weta | Owl Butterfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Hemideina ricta | Caligo memnon |
| Order | Orthoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Anostostomatidae | Nymphalidae |
| Size | 35-50 mm | Wingspan 120-160mm |
| Habitat | Hedgerows | Farmland |
| Diet | Herbivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Oceania (New Zealand - Banks Peninsula) | South America, North America |
| Conservation | Endangered | Least Concern |
Banks Peninsula Tree Weta
The rarest tree weta in New Zealand, restricted to Banks Peninsula near Christchurch. It was not described as a distinct species until 1993. Habitat loss and predation by introduced mammals have reduced its population to critically low levels.
Did You Know?
This weta was only recognised as its own species in 1993, having been overlooked among the more common Canterbury tree weta for over a century.
Owl Butterfly
A very large tropical butterfly with enormous owl-eye patterns on the underside of its hindwings. The uppersides are deep blue-purple.
Did You Know?
The large eyespots on its underwings closely resemble the face of a screech owl which startles would-be predators.