Grizzled Skipper vs African Wild Silk Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Grizzled Skipper | African Wild Silk Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Pyrgus malvae | Gonometa postica |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Hesperiidae | Lasiocampidae |
| Size | 23-29 mm wingspan | 50-70 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Grasslands | Woodlands |
| Diet | Omnivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Europe, temperate Asia | East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia) |
| Conservation | Least Concern (declining in northern range) | Least Concern |
Grizzled Skipper
A tiny butterfly with dark brown wings chequered with white spots, resembling a small moth. It basks with wings spread flat in sheltered spots on warm spring days.
Did You Know?
Its caterpillar lives inside a tiny tent made by folding and silk-binding the edge of a leaf.
African Wild Silk Moth
A medium-sized brown moth whose caterpillars spin tough, golden silk cocoons on Acacia branches. It has been investigated as a source of commercial wild silk in East Africa.
Did You Know?
Its silk is being developed as a sustainable textile, and wild harvesting of cocoons provides income for rural communities in East Africa.