Hawk Moth (Australian Privet Hawk Moth) vs Malagasy Moon Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Hawk Moth (Australian Privet Hawk Moth) Malagasy Moon Moth
Scientific Name Psilogramma menephron Ceranchia apollina
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Sphingidae Saturniidae
Size 100-120 mm wingspan 70-90 mm wingspan
Habitat Woodlands Mountains
Diet Nectar Feeders Omnivores
Regions Australia, Oceania Madagascar
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.

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Did You Know?

Hawk moth caterpillars rear up and vibrate their bodies when threatened, making them appear larger and more intimidating.

Malagasy Moon Moth

An elegant silk moth with soft white wings bearing delicate eyespots and fine dark scaling. It is smaller than the comet moth but equally beautiful, with a graceful fluttering flight.

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Did You Know?

Unlike the nocturnal comet moth, this species can sometimes be found flying during the late afternoon near forest clearings.