Hawk Moth (Australian Privet Hawk Moth) vs Flat-footed Scuttle Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Hawk Moth (Australian Privet Hawk Moth) | Flat-footed Scuttle Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Psilogramma menephron | Metopina oligoneura |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Diptera |
| Family | Sphingidae | Phoridae |
| Size | 100-120 mm wingspan | 1-2 mm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Woodlands |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Detritivores |
| Regions | Australia, Oceania | Europe, Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Hawk Moth (Australian Privet Hawk Moth)
One of Australia's largest hawk moths, with a robust grey body and intricately patterned wings that provide superb camouflage on tree bark. The large green caterpillars have a distinctive tail horn.
Did You Know?
Hawk moth caterpillars rear up and vibrate their bodies when threatened, making them appear larger and more intimidating.
Flat-footed Scuttle Fly
A minute brown phorid fly with broad flattened tarsi and reduced wing venation. It is associated with ant nests where it scavenges on refuse and dead ants.
Did You Know?
It lives inside ant colonies as a tolerated guest, feeding on the waste materials that ants discard in their refuse chambers.