Frangipani Hawk Moth vs Keyhole Wasp
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Frangipani Hawk Moth | Keyhole Wasp |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Pseudosphinx tetrio | Pachodynerus nasidens |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Sphingidae | Vespidae |
| Size | 100-140 mm | 10-15 mm |
| Habitat | Beaches & Coastal | Underground |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Southern United States, Caribbean, Central America, South America | Americas, introduced to Australia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Frangipani Hawk Moth
A large gray hawk moth whose larvae are among the most spectacular caterpillars in the world, with bold black and yellow banding and a bright red head. It is common throughout the tropics.
Did You Know?
The frangipani caterpillar's vivid warning coloration and ability to sequester toxic alkaloids from its host plant make it one of the most conspicuous and well-defended caterpillars in the Americas.
Keyhole Wasp
A mud-nesting wasp notorious for building nests inside aircraft pitot tubes. It has caused aviation incidents by blocking airspeed sensors.
Did You Know?
Brisbane Airport installed covers on aircraft sensors specifically because of this species.