Executioner Wasp vs Giant Leopard Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Executioner Wasp Giant Leopard Moth
Scientific Name Polistes carnifex Hypercompe scribonia
Order Hymenoptera Lepidoptera
Family Vespidae Erebidae
Size 25-35 mm 57-91 mm wingspan
Habitat Grasslands Underground
Diet Nectar Feeders Nectar Feeders
Regions Central America, South America North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Executioner Wasp

The largest Neotropical paper wasp, with a sting that produces immediate searing pain and potentially causes tissue necrosis. It builds open comb nests.

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Did You Know?

Some entomologists consider its sting more painful than the bullet ant, placing it among the most painful in the insect world.

Giant Leopard Moth

A striking white moth covered in black hollow ring spots with an iridescent blue-black body with orange markings underneath. It plays dead when threatened.

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Did You Know?

When disturbed, it curls up to reveal its bright blue and orange abdomen as a warning display to predators.