Clouded Skipper vs Bella Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Clouded Skipper | Bella Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Lerema accius | Utetheisa ornatrix |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Hesperiidae | Arctiidae |
| Size | 32-44 mm wingspan | 33-46 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Underground | Beaches & Coastal |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Herbivores |
| Regions | Southeastern United States from Texas to Virginia | Southeastern United States, Central and South America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Clouded Skipper
A dark brown skipper with small glassy white spots on its forewings. It is one of the most common grass skippers in the southeastern United States.
Did You Know?
Unlike most skippers, it prefers shaded habitats and is frequently found in wooded areas rather than open fields.
Bella Moth
A brightly colored moth with pink-orange forewings covered in white and black spots. It sequesters toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids from its host plants for chemical defense.
Did You Know?
Males transfer protective alkaloids to females during mating, which she then deposits onto her eggs to protect them.