Darling Underwing vs Gold Swift
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Darling Underwing | Gold Swift |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Catocala cara | Phymatopus hecta |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Erebidae | Hepialidae |
| Size | 75-90 mm wingspan | 25-35 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Heathland |
| Diet | Sap Feeders | Root Feeders |
| Regions | Eastern North America from Canada to the southeastern United States | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Darling Underwing
A large underwing moth with cryptic gray-brown forewings and striking pinkish-red hindwings banded with black. It is commonly attracted to sugaring baits.
Did You Know?
Its Latin name cara means 'darling' or 'beloved,' referencing the beautiful pink hindwings hidden under its bark-like forewings.
Gold Swift
A small primitive moth with golden-brown forewings marked with silvery-white spots. Males perform hovering display flights at dusk, dangling their legs and releasing pheromones.
Did You Know?
Larvae feed underground on bracken roots for two years before pupating in the soil.