Dun-bar vs Hawk Moth (Australian Privet Hawk Moth)

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Dun-bar Hawk Moth (Australian Privet Hawk Moth)
Scientific Name Cosmia trapezina Psilogramma menephron
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Noctuidae Sphingidae
Size 28-34 mm wingspan 100-120 mm wingspan
Habitat Underground Woodlands
Diet Predators Nectar Feeders
Regions Europe, Asia Australia, Oceania
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Dun-bar

A late summer noctuid moth whose caterpillars are partly predatory, eating other moth larvae sharing their tree. Variable brown coloration with a distinctive pale bar.

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Did You Know?

Caterpillars are cannibalistic and predatory, readily consuming other moth larvae they encounter on leaves.

Hawk Moth (Australian Privet Hawk Moth)

One of Australia's largest hawk moths, with a robust grey body and intricately patterned wings that provide superb camouflage on tree bark. The large green caterpillars have a distinctive tail horn.

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Did You Know?

Hawk moth caterpillars rear up and vibrate their bodies when threatened, making them appear larger and more intimidating.