Gypsy Moth Tachinid vs Tau Emperor Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Gypsy Moth Tachinid Tau Emperor Moth
Scientific Name Compsilura concinnata Aglia tau
Order Diptera Lepidoptera
Family Tachinidae Saturniidae
Size 7-10 mm 55-80 mm wingspan
Habitat Woodlands Woodlands
Diet Parasites Herbivores
Regions Europe, North America, Asia Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Gypsy Moth Tachinid

A parasitic fly introduced to North America from Europe to control gypsy moths. It has an extremely broad host range attacking over 200 insect species.

💡

Did You Know?

Its introduction to North America is now considered a mistake because it devastated native silk moth populations.

Tau Emperor Moth

A day-flying silk moth with a distinctive T-shaped mark on each wing.

💡

Did You Know?

Males fly rapidly in sunshine while females rest on tree trunks.