Blackburn's Sphinx Moth vs Green Hairstreak
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Blackburn's Sphinx Moth | Green Hairstreak |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Manduca blackburni | Callophrys rubi |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Sphingidae | Lycaenidae |
| Size | 100-120 mm wingspan | Wingspan 26-34mm |
| Habitat | Heathland | Heathland |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Herbivores |
| Regions | Oceania (Hawaii) | Europe, Asia, Africa |
| Conservation | Endangered | Least Concern |
Blackburn's Sphinx Moth
The largest native insect in Hawaii, this sphinx moth has a wingspan up to 120 mm. It was once widespread across the islands but is now extremely rare due to habitat loss and invasive species. Its larvae originally fed on native aiea trees but now also use introduced tobacco.
Did You Know?
This moth has adapted to feed on introduced tobacco plants, a relative of its native host, which may have helped prevent its extinction.
Green Hairstreak
A small butterfly with plain brown uppersides but stunning iridescent green undersides. It always rests with wings closed showing only the green underside.
Did You Know?
It is the only green butterfly in Britain and its color comes from photonic crystals in the wing scales not pigment.