Dobsonfly vs Australian Owlfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Dobsonfly | Australian Owlfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Corydalus cornutus | Suhpalacsa flavipes |
| Order | Neuroptera | Neuroptera |
| Family | Corydalidae | Ascalaphidae |
| Size | 40-55 mm body, 125 mm wingspan | 40-55 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Woodlands |
| Diet | Omnivores | Predators |
| Regions | North America | Australia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Dobsonfly
Large insects with intimidating mandibles in males that are actually too large to bite effectively. Aquatic hellgrammite larvae are prized as fishing bait and indicate clean water.
Did You Know?
Male dobsonflies have terrifying mandibles up to 40 mm long, but they are so large the males cannot actually generate enough force to pinch — the females bite harder.
Australian Owlfly
A large Australian owlfly with smoky wings and yellow legs. Active at dusk in open eucalyptus woodland and dry grassland.
Did You Know?
It is one of the most commonly encountered owlflies at light traps across inland Australia.