Hercules Moth vs August Thorn

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Hercules Moth August Thorn
Scientific Name Coscinocera hercules Ennomos quercinaria
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Saturniidae Geometridae
Size 270 mm wingspan 32-38 mm wingspan
Habitat Forests Woodlands
Diet Omnivores Herbivores
Regions Oceania Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Hercules Moth

Has the largest wing area of any moth — up to 300 square centimeters. Named after Hercules for its great size. Adults live only about two weeks and do not eat.

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Did You Know?

The Hercules moth has the largest wing surface area of any insect on Earth — its wings can cover an area larger than an open human hand.

August Thorn

A thorn moth flying in late summer with warm yellow-brown wings. Rests with wings spread flat. Larvae feed on oak and other deciduous trees.

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Did You Know?

The angular wing shape and brown coloring give it a remarkable resemblance to a dry autumn leaf.