Gum Leaf Skeletoniser vs Ozark Stiletto Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Gum Leaf Skeletoniser | Ozark Stiletto Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Uraba lugens | Thereva frontalis |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Diptera |
| Family | Nolidae | Therevidae |
| Size | 25-35 mm wingspan | 8-11 mm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Woodlands |
| Diet | Herbivores | Predators |
| Regions | Australia, Oceania | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Gum Leaf Skeletoniser
A small moth whose caterpillars are known for retaining their shed head capsules stacked on top of each other, forming a tall 'hat'. The larvae feed gregariously on eucalyptus leaves, skeletonising them.
Did You Know?
Its caterpillar is nicknamed the 'mad hatterpillar' because it wears a tower of old head capsules like a top hat.
Ozark Stiletto Fly
A medium-sized stiletto fly with a grayish body covered in fine pale hairs and clear wings. It is commonly found resting on sunlit surfaces in open woodlands.
Did You Know?
The larvae have a unique ability to move rapidly through loose sand using undulating body movements.