Gum Leaf Skeletoniser vs Rosy Maple Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Gum Leaf Skeletoniser Rosy Maple Moth
Scientific Name Uraba lugens Dryocampa rubicunda
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Nolidae Saturniidae
Size 25-35 mm wingspan 32-55 mm wingspan
Habitat Woodlands Woodlands
Diet Herbivores Herbivores
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.

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Did You Know?

Its caterpillar is nicknamed the 'mad hatterpillar' because it wears a tower of old head capsules like a top hat.

Rosy Maple Moth

A small fluffy moth with striking pink and yellow coloring that resembles cotton candy. Adults emerge in spring and are attracted to lights at night.

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Did You Know?

Its bright pink and yellow coloring serves no known warning or mimicry purpose and remains an evolutionary puzzle.