Hairy Whirligig Beetle vs Common Brown Lacewing
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Hairy Whirligig Beetle | Common Brown Lacewing |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Orectochilus villosus | Hemerobius humulinus |
| Order | Coleoptera | Neuroptera |
| Family | Gyrinidae | Hemerobiidae |
| Size | 5-7 mm | 6-10 mm |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Woodlands |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | Europe | Europe, Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Hairy Whirligig Beetle
A nocturnal whirligig beetle covered in fine golden hairs that trap air underwater. Unlike other whirligigs it hides under stones by day.
Did You Know?
It is the only European whirligig beetle that is primarily nocturnal rather than diurnal.
Common Brown Lacewing
A small brownish lacewing with mottled wings commonly found on deciduous trees. Adults and larvae both feed on aphids and other small insects.
Did You Know?
Unlike green lacewings, brown lacewing adults are also predatory and actively hunt small insects.