Giant Leopard Moth vs Gold Swift

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Giant Leopard Moth Gold Swift
Scientific Name Hypercompe scribonia Phymatopus hecta
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Erebidae Hepialidae
Size 57-91 mm wingspan 25-35 mm wingspan
Habitat Underground Heathland
Diet Nectar Feeders Root Feeders
Regions North America Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

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.

Gold Swift

A small primitive moth with golden-brown forewings marked with silvery-white spots. Males perform hovering display flights at dusk, dangling their legs and releasing pheromones.

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Did You Know?

Larvae feed underground on bracken roots for two years before pupating in the soil.