Eyed Hawk-moth vs New Zealand Magpie Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Eyed Hawk-moth | New Zealand Magpie Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Smerinthus ocellatus | Nyctemera annulata |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Sphingidae | Erebidae |
| Size | 70-95 mm wingspan | 35-45 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Gardens |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | Europe, temperate Asia | Oceania (New Zealand) |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Eyed Hawk-moth
A large hawk-moth with cryptic brown forewings that conceal vivid blue and black eyespots on the hindwings. When startled, it flashes its eyespots to frighten predators.
Did You Know?
The flash of its eyespots has been shown experimentally to startle birds into abandoning their attack.
New Zealand Magpie Moth
A distinctive day-flying moth endemic to New Zealand, with black and white spotted wings. It is commonly seen fluttering in gardens and bush edges, where its hairy black caterpillars feed on ragwort and groundsel. The bold pattern warns predators of its distastefulness.
Did You Know?
The magpie moth's caterpillars feed on poisonous ragwort plants and store the toxins in their body, making both the caterpillar and adult moth toxic to predators.