Death Head Hawkmoth vs Green Immigrant Leaf Weevil

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Death Head Hawkmoth Green Immigrant Leaf Weevil
Scientific Name Acherontia atropos Polydrusus formosus
Order Lepidoptera Coleoptera
Family Sphingidae Chrysomelidae
Size 100-130 mm wingspan 5-7 mm
Habitat Farmland Orchards
Diet Herbivores Herbivores
Regions Africa, Europe, Asia Europe, introduced to Northeastern North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Death Head Hawkmoth

Famous for the skull-like pattern on its thorax. Can emit a loud squeak when disturbed. Raids beehives by mimicking bee scent to steal honey.

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Did You Know?

Deaths-head hawkmoths invade beehives by releasing a chemical that mimics the scent of bees, allowing them to walk in unbothered and feast on honey.

Green Immigrant Leaf Weevil

A small, brilliant metallic green beetle covered in tiny iridescent scales that produce its striking coloration. It is native to Europe but has become established in parts of North America.

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Did You Know?

Its brilliant green color comes from microscopic scales on its body; once these scales wear off, the beetle appears dull brown or black underneath.