Box Tree Moth vs Spicebush Swallowtail
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Box Tree Moth | Spicebush Swallowtail |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Cydalima perspectalis | Papilio troilus |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Crambidae | Papilionidae |
| Size | 35-45 mm wingspan | Wingspan 90-130mm |
| Habitat | Gardens | Underground |
| Diet | Wood Feeders | Herbivores |
| Regions | Native to East Asia; invasive in Europe and North America | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Box Tree Moth
A white moth with iridescent brown wing borders that has become one of Europe's most destructive invasive species. Its caterpillars can completely defoliate ornamental boxwood hedges.
Did You Know?
Since arriving in Europe around 2007, it has devastated centuries-old boxwood gardens across the continent.
Spicebush Swallowtail
A dark swallowtail butterfly with blue-green hindwing scaling and orange spots. Its caterpillar has large false eyespots making it resemble a small snake.
Did You Know?
The young caterpillar mimics a bird dropping while the older caterpillar switches to mimicking a green tree snake.