Eastern Tent Caterpillar Moth vs Malachite Butterfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Eastern Tent Caterpillar Moth | Malachite Butterfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Malacosoma americanum | Siproeta stelenes |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Lasiocampidae | Nymphalidae |
| Size | 25–38 mm wingspan | Wingspan 85-100mm |
| Habitat | Grasslands | Orchards |
| Diet | Herbivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Eastern North America | North America, South America |
| Conservation | Not Evaluated | Least Concern |
Eastern Tent Caterpillar Moth
A common moth whose caterpillars build conspicuous silk tents in the forks of cherry and apple trees. Colonies cooperate to build and expand their communal shelter.
Did You Know?
Caterpillars lay silk trail pheromones to guide nestmates to the best feeding sites on the tree.
Malachite Butterfly
A large butterfly with striking black and brilliant malachite green patterning on both wing surfaces. It has a slow graceful flight.
Did You Know?
Unlike most butterflies it feeds primarily on rotting fruit and bird droppings rather than flower nectar.