Earwig Scorpionfly vs Southern Birdwing

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Earwig Scorpionfly Southern Birdwing
Scientific Name Merope tuber Troides minos
Order Mecoptera Lepidoptera
Family Meropeidae Papilionidae
Size 10-12 mm 140-190 mm wingspan
Habitat Forests Forests
Diet Detritivores Nectar Feeders
Regions North America South Asia (India, endemic to the Western Ghats)
Conservation Data Deficient Least Concern

Earwig Scorpionfly

An extremely rare and primitive scorpionfly with forcep-like cerci reminiscent of earwigs. It is nocturnal and found in leaf litter of old-growth eastern North American forests.

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Did You Know?

Merope tuber is so rarely encountered that its biology and ecology remain largely mysterious despite being described over 150 years ago.

Southern Birdwing

India's largest butterfly, with a striking black and bright yellow color scheme. Males display velvety black forewings and brilliant golden-yellow hindwings, while females are larger with more subdued markings.

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Did You Know?

The Southern Birdwing is the largest butterfly in India and holds a majestic, soaring flight pattern similar to a bird.