Crimson Rose vs Processionary Caterpillar Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Crimson Rose Processionary Caterpillar Moth
Scientific Name Pachliopta hector Ochrogaster lunifer
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Papilionidae Notodontidae
Size Wingspan 90-120mm 35-45 mm wingspan
Habitat Heathland Woodlands
Diet Herbivores Herbivores
Regions Asia Australia, Oceania
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Crimson Rose

A striking black swallowtail with bright crimson patches on the hindwings and a red body. It is a model species for mimicry by other butterflies.

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Did You Know?

Its body contains toxic aristolochic acids from its larval food plant making it unpalatable and a model for multiple mimic species.

Processionary Caterpillar Moth

A moth whose caterpillars are famous for travelling in long, nose-to-tail processions through the Australian bush. The larvae are covered in irritating hairs that can cause severe allergic reactions in humans.

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Did You Know?

Processions of caterpillars can stretch for metres and contain hundreds of individuals following a silk trail left by the leader.