Frangipani Hawk Moth vs Red Admiral

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Frangipani Hawk Moth Red Admiral
Scientific Name Pseudosphinx tetrio Vanessa atalanta
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Sphingidae Nymphalidae
Size 100-140 mm 56-62 mm wingspan
Habitat Beaches & Coastal Gardens
Diet Nectar Feeders Fruit Feeders
Regions Southern United States, Caribbean, Central America, South America Europe, North America, North Africa, Asia
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.

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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.

Red Admiral

A bold black butterfly with red-orange bands and white spots, commonly seen in gardens. It is a strong migrant and occasional overwinterer.

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Did You Know?

In autumn it is strongly attracted to fermenting fallen fruit and can become intoxicated on the alcohol.