December Moth vs Dingy Skipper
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | December Moth | Dingy Skipper |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Poecilocampa populi | Erynnis tages |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Lasiocampidae | Hesperiidae |
| Size | 35-45 mm wingspan | 27-34 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Parks | Grasslands |
| Diet | Predators | Omnivores |
| Regions | Europe | Europe, temperate Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
December Moth
A dark, hairy moth that flies in the coldest months of the year, from November to January. Its cold-season activity is an adaptation to avoid parasitoids and predators.
Did You Know?
Males fly actively on freezing nights, using antifreeze proteins in their blood to stay airborne.
Dingy Skipper
A small, moth-like butterfly with mottled grey-brown wings that rests with wings spread flat. It is easily overlooked due to its drab colouration.
Did You Know?
On cool days it basks with wings open like a moth rather than holding them upright like most butterflies.