Clifden Nonpareil Moth vs Common Blue Butterfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Clifden Nonpareil Moth Common Blue Butterfly
Scientific Name Catocala fraxini Polyommatus icarus
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Erebidae Lycaenidae
Size 75-100 mm wingspan 28-36 mm wingspan
Habitat Woodlands Grasslands
Diet Herbivores Nectar Feeders
Regions Europe, Asia Europe, North Africa, Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Clifden Nonpareil Moth

A large underwing moth with spectacular blue-black hindwings concealed at rest.

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Did You Know?

Its cryptic gray forewings hide vivid blue bands that flash during escape flights.

Common Blue Butterfly

A small butterfly where males are vivid violet-blue and females are brown with orange spots. It is the most widespread blue butterfly in Europe.

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Did You Know?

Its caterpillars secrete a sweet honeydew that attracts ants, which in turn protect them from predators.