Cranberry Blue vs Fox Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Cranberry Blue | Fox Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Plebejus optilete | Macrothylacia rubi |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Lycaenidae | Lasiocampidae |
| Size | 22-28 mm wingspan | Wingspan 50-65mm |
| Habitat | Underground | Beaches & Coastal |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Herbivores |
| Regions | Scandinavia, Finland, northern Russia, Siberia, subarctic Japan | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Cranberry Blue
A small butterfly with violet-blue upperwings in males and dark brown in females. The hindwing underside has a diagnostic metallic silver spot. It frequents boggy habitats where its larval foodplant cranberry grows.
Did You Know?
The caterpillar is tended by ants which protect it from parasitoids in exchange for sweet honeydew secretions.
Fox Moth
A richly colored russet-brown moth. The large hairy black caterpillar is commonly seen crossing paths in autumn.
Did You Know?
The large dark caterpillar is one of the most commonly seen caterpillars in autumn as it searches for a hibernation site.