Goliath Birdwing vs Eyed Hawk-moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Goliath Birdwing | Eyed Hawk-moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Ornithoptera goliath | Smerinthus ocellatus |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Papilionidae | Sphingidae |
| Size | 150-210 mm wingspan | 70-95 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Forests | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Predators |
| Regions | Oceania (Papua New Guinea, Moluccas) | Europe, temperate Asia |
| Conservation | Near Threatened | Least Concern |
Goliath Birdwing
One of the largest butterflies in the world, found in the rainforests of Papua New Guinea and nearby islands. Males are brilliantly coloured with green, yellow, and black markings. Females are larger but more subdued in colour.
Did You Know?
Despite its enormous size, the Goliath birdwing is a powerful and graceful flier, often soaring high above the forest canopy.
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.