Ensign Wasp vs Hawk Moth (Australian Privet Hawk Moth)

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Ensign Wasp Hawk Moth (Australian Privet Hawk Moth)
Scientific Name Evania appendigaster Psilogramma menephron
Order Hymenoptera Lepidoptera
Family Evaniidae Sphingidae
Size 5-7 mm 100-120 mm wingspan
Habitat Woodlands Woodlands
Diet Parasitoids Nectar Feeders
Regions Africa, Asia, North America, South America Australia, Oceania
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Ensign Wasp

A parasitoid wasp that targets cockroach egg cases and helps control pest populations.

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Did You Know?

It bobs its flag-like abdomen up and down as it walks, resembling a tiny flag bearer.

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.