Black Saddlebags vs Large Pale Clothes Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Black Saddlebags Large Pale Clothes Moth
Scientific Name Tramea lacerata Tinea pallescentella
Order Odonata Lepidoptera
Family Libellulidae Tineidae
Size 47-55 mm 7-11 mm body; 15-22 mm wingspan
Habitat Ponds & Lakes Woodlands
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions North America Europe, North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Black Saddlebags

A large migratory dragonfly with conspicuous black patches at the base of its hindwings. It flies for extended periods and is often seen in feeding swarms.

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Did You Know?

The dark hindwing patches look like saddlebags, giving this strong migrant its memorable name.

Large Pale Clothes Moth

A pale straw-colored clothes moth that is larger than the common webbing clothes moth. Its larvae prefer coarser animal fibers and are frequently found in old birds' nests.

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Did You Know?

It is more commonly associated with roof spaces and bird nests than with clothing in wardrobes.